THURS-034 - Bridging Health Disparities: The Role of Physical Activity in Smoking Cessation Across Diverse Populations

Brief Abstract Summary: The study used 2022 NHIS data to explore the link between physical activity and smoking behavior. It found that physically active individuals were 35% less likely to smoke. The study highlights the importance of integrating physical activity into smoking cessation programs, especially in diverse cultural settings. Culturally sensitive health education initiatives can promote equitable wellness outcomes and help reduce smoking rates globally.

Detailed abstract description: Background
Physical activity is widely recognized for its health benefits, including improving cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. In the context of global health promotion, it is crucial to understand the relationship between physical activity and smoking behavior, particularly considering the socio-demographic factors that influence health behaviors across diverse populations. Smoking prevalence varies significantly based on gender, ethnicity, and body mass index (BMI), highlighting the importance of examining how vigorous physical activity can influence smoking cessation efforts within different cultural contexts. This study utilizes data from the 2022 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) to explore these associations and provide insights for culturally tailored health education interventions.
Methods
The study utilized NHIS 2022 data from 27,651 adults across diverse U.S. households. A binary classification system was applied to categorize smoking status (smoker or non-smoker) and physical activity levels (physically active or inactive). Key socio-demographic variables—including gender, ethnicity, and BMI—were examined to assess their impact on smoking behaviors. Chi-square tests, logistic regression, and propensity score matching (PSM) were employed to identify associations and adjust for confounding factors. Multiple imputation techniques addressed missing data, ensuring reliable analysis.
Results
The findings demonstrated a significant inverse relationship between vigorous physical activity and smoking behavior. Among the 26,168 adults included in the analysis, 88% were non-smokers, with physically active individuals being 35% less likely to smoke (OR = 0.65, 95% CI [0.58, 0.75], p < 0.001). The analysis also revealed considerable variation in smoking behaviors across socio-demographic lines, with higher smoking prevalence among men, individuals with higher BMIs, and certain ethnic groups. These patterns suggest that culturally specific interventions tailored to the socio-demographic contexts of different populations could greatly enhance the effectiveness of health promotion strategies aimed at reducing smoking rates globally.
Recommendations
The study emphasizes the significance of integrating physical activity into smoking cessation programs globally, particularly in diverse cultural settings where socio-demographic factors influence health behaviors. Health education initiatives should be culturally sensitive and adaptable, capitalizing on the diversity of populations to promote equitable wellness outcomes. By utilizing digital tools and culturally relevant pedagogical approaches, public health interventions can boost engagement in health-promoting activities, such as physical exercise, to aid global efforts in reducing smoking.