Tobacco smoke in Mexico. Results from the National Health Surveys 2000 and 2006

Objective. To analyze tobacco consumption in teenagers and adults based on the National Health Surveys 2000 and 2006. Material and Methods. Tobacco consumption information is presented at national level, from questionnaires answered by teenagers and adults. Statistical analysis consisted in general and specific prevalences and intervals obtained at 95% confidence. Results. 9.7% (95% CI:8.9-10.6) teenagers stated that they have smoked at least 100 cigarettes during their life, in 2000, and 7.6% (95% CI: 7.0-8.2) in 2006. Prevalences in adults in 2000 and 2006 were: 12.9% (95% CI: 11.8 a 14.1) and 13.3% (95% CI: 12.8 a 13.8) in daily smokers and 9.4% (95% CI: 8.9 a 9.9) and 5.6% (95% CI: 5.3 a 6.0) in occasionally smokers. Conclusion. Results from this study show a decrement in tobacco consumption in occasionally smokers. Nevertheless, keep doing specific studies about this issue, including the use of international definitions, is necessary.