Does urban-rural disparity exist in nicotine and alcohol dependence among Chinese older adults?

Abstract

Background China is a large country with substantial urban-rural disparity. With the increasing concerns related to the rapid growth of the older adult population and problems related to smoking and alcohol consumption, this study aims to examine the potential urban-rural disparity associated with nicotine or alcohol dependence among Chinese older adults. Methods We used three waves of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey and included older adults who were 65 years old or above (CLHLS; n = 18,207). The Heckman two-step selection procedure was applied to reduce potential selection bias. The first and the second steps of the Heckman two-step selection procedure all included multivariable logistic regressions. Results In the final study sample, approximately 8.1% and 4.0% of older adults reported nicotine and alcohol dependence, respectively. In the first step of the Heckman selection procedure, urban residents were less likely to become current smokers and alcohol users than rural residents (all p < .05). However, urban-rural disparity was not associated with either nicotine or alcohol dependence (all p > .05). Conclusions We did not observe the urban-rural disparity in nicotine and alcohol dependence among Chinese older adults. Chinese policymakers should continue to strengthen national policy to combat smoking and alcohol consumption, especially older adults.