An early-stage epidemic: a systematic review of correlates of smoking among Chinese women.
BACKGROUND
Despite the historically low smoking prevalence among Chinese women, there is a trend of future increase.


OBJECTIVE
We systematically reviewed the correlates of smoking among Chinese girls and women.


METHODS
We conducted a systematic review of literature on correlates of smoking among Chinese women using Medline and China Academic Journals databases. Following the PRISMA statement, two investigators independently searched for literature, identified and reviewed papers, assessed the quality of the papers, and extracted information. The characteristics of studies and correlates of smoking were synthesized separately for youth and adults.


RESULTS
A total of 15 articles (11 on adults, 4 on youth) met the inclusion criteria. Based on these studies, peer smoking was the most consistent correlate of smoking among Chinese girls. Among Chinese women, partner smoking, job-related stress, and exposure to cigarettes made for women were consistent correlates of smoking. Knowledge of harms and negative attitudes towards smoking were found to be negatively associated with smoking.


CONCLUSIONS
Overall, the evidence base for smoking among Chinese women is limited. Although smoking among Chinese women is still at an early stage, it is becoming more prevalent among specific population subgroups, such as rural-to-urban migrant workers. Although further research is needed, findings from the current study provide a roadmap for research and policy on prevention of smoking among Chinese girls and women.
Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia, melody.ding@sydney.edu.au.
Ding
D
Ding
Klaus
K
Gebel
Brian F
BF
Oldenburg
Xia
X
Wan
Xuefeng
X
Zhong
Thomas E
TE
Novotny
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D002681:China / Q000453:epidemiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009790:Occupations / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D010379:Peer Group; D015995:Prevalence; D012424:Rural Population; D012907:Smoking / Q000453:epidemiology*; D018454:Spouses / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D055815:Young Adult