Estimating the Determinants of Smoking Behavior in Taiwan

Abstract

This paper investigates the determinants of the smoking behavior of people in Taiwan based on data obtained from the 2004 Taiwan Panel Study of Family Dynamics. The sample size consists of 3,015 individuals whose ages range from 33 to 75. Probit models are estimated separately for the smoking behavior equations. The results indicate that gender, marital status, age, health, employment, and the presence of young children have a relatively important impact on an individual's smoking behavior. In addition, the results of the estimated predictors, such as having higher educational attainment, having smoking family members and smoking peers, and being aware of the harmful effects of smoking, also bring to light crucial policy implications. Study limitations are noted.