PREDICTORS OF SMOKING AMONG US COLLEGE-STUDENTS

Objectives. This study explored predictors of smoking among a large, r epresentative national sample of students enrolled in American 4-year colleges. Methods. A sample of undergraduate students, randomly select ed from 140 colleges, was sent a detailed questionnaire that included questions about smoking status. Results. The 30-day smoking prevalence was 22.3%; 25% of the participants were former smokers. Multivariate analyses suggested that, among college students, men are less likely t o smoke than women. In addition, high-risk behaviors (e.g., marijuana use) and lifestyle choices (e.g., nonparticipation in athletics) incre ased the likelihood of being a smoker. Conclusions. This study's findi ngs have important implications for health education and promotion amo ng college populations.