Objectives: The smoking rate among women of reproductive age has recently increased in Japan and that in male population is still over 50%. Smoking and environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) among pregnant women has been becoming a serious public health problem. This study identified smoking status, exposure to ETS and attitude towards smoking in pregnant population in Japan. Methods: A questionnaire survey was conducted to pregnant women who wanted delivery at 4 obstetric hospitals, from December 2000 to February 2001. Smoking status before and after the detection of pregnancy, awareness of adverse effects of tobacco smoke on babies, daily exposure to ETS, voluntary actions taken to ETS and advice on smoking from family members, friends or health professionals were confidentially asked to all respondents. In addition, intention to quit was asked to current smokers. Results: The number of respondents is approximately 1000. The data from hospitals was currently analyzed. Definite results would be shown at the meeting. Conclusion: We decide to expand this survey to a nation-wide study in 2001 with the collaboration of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare and some professional associations. Such nation-wide study would give us some clear evidences helpful to make policies against smoking and ETS among pregnant women in Japan.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the presentation, the audience will be able to: 1. Identify individual and environmental factors associated with smoking behavior and environmental tobacco smoke among pregnant women in Japan. 2. Develop proper health policies that keep pregnant women and babies from health hazard caused by tobacco.
Keywords: Smoking, Reproductive Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.