Smoking prevalence among adults in the Russian Federation

Abstract

Results of representative surveys of adult population aged 18 and over of the Russian Federation were reviewed. Prevalence of daily smoking varied in 1990-2000 between 31-40%, and stayed on the same level at the beginning of 2000s. Smoking prevalence in men ranged 51-66%, among women it was increasing and reached recently 15-20%. Differences in survey results are probably accounted for by differences in questions wording rather than changes in smoking prevalence. To assess the dynamic of smoking prevalence it is recommended to conduct annual surveys with sets of questions which allow more accurate assessment of respondents’ smoking status. Stable high levels of smoking prevalence in Russia on 2000s witness ineffectiveness of those tobacco control measures which were implemented.