How do Chinese young adult women initiate smoking and progress to become regular smokers? A qualitative study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective The increasing prevalence of smoking among young adult women in China raises concerns about the associated health risks. This study aims to investigate the trajectory of smoking and its influencing factors among Chinese young adult women in order to gain a comprehensive understanding and reduce the prevalence of smoking. Methods Using purposive sampling, one-on-one interviews were conducted with 28 young female smokers aged 20–31 years between May 2022 and September 2022. Results The findings revealed that the trajectory of smoking among Chinese young adult women is divided into three stages: smoking initiation, maintenance of smoking, and becoming addicted to smoking. Participants were initially attracted to smoking due to factors such as the taste of tobacco, peer influence, stress in interpersonal interactions, and cigarettes marketed for women. As smoking behavior progressed, participants mentioned motivations including relieving negative emotions, experiencing relaxation and pleasure, shaping their personal image, and confronting discrimination and prejudice. Eventually, when they became addicted to smoking, the physical dependence on nicotine and the smoking habit prevented them from stopping. Conclusions Understanding the influence of these factors on women’s smoking behaviors is crucial for informing tobacco control policies and reducing tobacco use among women.