Smoking behaviour and age

Abstract

Aim: This study was aimed to evaluate age-related differences in smoking habits and to determine the different characteristics of the patients older than 65 years. Method: Information regarding demographic characteristics, comorbidities, and smoking history were obtained. The Hooked on Nicotine Checklist (HONC) questionnaire and the Fagerstrom Nicotine Dependence Test (NDT), were administered. Results: This study included a total of 140 patients with a mean age of 51.5±14.1 who presented to the smoking cessation unit between 2016-18. The age of onset for cigarette smoking was 16.9±5.1 years; the mean total smoking amount was 32.8±15.8 packs/year. 51(36.4%) patients were ≥65 years of age and 89 (63.6%) were Conclusion: Smoking is associated with male gender, a lower educational level, and a higher smoking rate above 65 years of age. These patients have a higher autonomy over smoking; they tried to quit smoking and used drugs more often. The rate of living with other smokers at home and at work is low. Patients over 65 years of age have different characteristics and treatments should be evaluated differently.