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Smoking profile among the Gay and Lesbian Community in Ireland

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Abstract

Objective

We hypothesized that smoking rates among the Gay and Lesbian Community (GLC) in Ireland are not significantly different from the general Irish population.

Methods

A convenience sampling of self-identified GLC was recruited using electronic (n = 700) and print (n = 500) media procedures in response to survey call advertisements (December 2006–March 2007). In all, 1,113 had complete smoking data and were analyzed. Data on a random sample of 4,000 individuals, using the Irish Office of Tobacco Control monthly telephone survey, were analyzed for the same period.

Results

Adjusted smoking rates in GLC were 26 and 24.6% in the general Irish population (P = 0.99), while “heavy” (≥20 cigarettes/day) smoking prevalence was 44.1 and 36.6%, respectively (P = 0.02). Upper SES GLCs are “heavy” smokers compared with general population of similar SES group (P = 0.01).

Conclusion

When considering two different sampling methodologies, this study suggests that smoking rates among the GLC in Ireland are not significantly different from the general Irish population.

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Acknowledgments

Department of Health and Children; Office of Tobacco Control; Royal City Dublin Hospital Trust (all based in the Republic of Ireland) and Out Now Consulting Agent for technical support.

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Correspondence to L. Clancy.

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Kabir, Z., Keogan, S., Clarke, V. et al. Smoking profile among the Gay and Lesbian Community in Ireland. Ir J Med Sci 179, 423–426 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-009-0391-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-009-0391-8

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