THE SMOKING-HABITS OF MINNESOTA PHYSICIANS

The prevalence of smoking among physicians has gradually declined over the past 25 years. Few recent studies have examined specific smoking habits. Of 393 physicians in the Minnesota Medical Association who responded to a survey (response rate of 83%), 9% reported smoking any form of tobacco. The prevalence of cigarette smoking was 4.9%, while 5.1% smoked a pipe and 2.1% smoked cigars. The Prevalence estimates of current and former smokers were greater among men than women and among older than younger physicians. Cigarette and overall smoking prevalence among physicians continues to be well below levels reported for the general population.