Prevalence and correlates of cigarette smoking among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Vancouver, Canada: A cross-sectional survey

Abstract

Objectives: Past studies of men who have sex with men (MSM) in Canada and elsewhere have reported high prevalence of cigarette smoking. In the context of a declining prevalence of smoking in the general population, we sought to gather more recent estimates of the prevalence of smoking among a sample of MSM in Vancouver and examine correlates of current smoking status. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of MSM selected through a venue-based time-place sampling method in Vancouver. Correlates of smoking were investigated using bivariate analyses and multivariate logistic regression modeling. We also examined the association between smoking status and use of mood-altering substances. Results: A total of 37.0% (413/1115) of study participants were current smokers. HIV-positive individuals (50.0%), men under 30 years old (40.4%), and individuals earning < $20,000 per year (51.6%) reported the highest prevalence of smoking. Asian men had a much lower prevalence of smoking (20.5%) (p < 0.001 for all). Multivariate modeling found a reduced odds of smoking among individuals of Asian heritage and increased odds of smoking among individuals aged