Epidemiological study on smoking habits and opinions among young athletes in the province of pordenone italy
Fachin, C.; Serraino, D.; Feltrin, O.; Talamini, R.; Gallo, E.; Franceschi, S.
Igiene Moderna 91(5): 502-514
1989
Accession: 007308226
Between November 1985 and October 1986, smoking habits were investigated among yound and adult athletes (12-39 years of age) of the province of Pordenone, in the north-east of Italy. Seventy-five percent of athletes had never smoked and 21% were current smokers. Compared to men and women of the general population, smokers were 1/3 fewer among males and 1/5 more among females; an excess of ex-smokers was found in both sexes. The major determinants of smoking were the parents' smoking habits (athletes whose parents were smokers had a twofold risk of being smokers) and the practice of a less exhausing sports activity. Smoking health hazards were underestimated by the great majority if the interviewed subjects. This study confirms the positive effect of physical activity on smoking habits, and, in particular for young people, on starting of smoking.