Prevalence of Smoking in the United States: A Focus on Age, Sex, Ethnicity, and Geographic Patterns

Over the last 40 years, the prevalence of smoking in the United States has declined from a peak of approximately 40% in 1965 to 20.9% in 2005. However, the rate of decline has leveled in recent years such that between 2004 and 2005 there was no decline in smoking prevalence. The prevalence of smoking varies across subpopulations. Among adults, smoking prevalence is currently highest among those aged 18 to 24 years (24.4%) and those aged 25 to 44 years (24.1%). Women are less likely to smoke than men; however, the gender gap has narrowed over time. In immigrant populations, smoking prevalence increases with acculturation. Although smoking prevalence varies widely by state, most states have had a decline over time. Rural populations have a higher smoking prevalence than urban populations. If further reductions in the prevalence of smoking are to occur, vigilance and targeted interventions in specific subpopulations will be crucial.