Prevalence and determinants of smoking and secondhand smoke exposure in a rural population of central Greece: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

There are very few studies studying the characteristics of smoking and tobacco exposure exclusively in rural populations in Greece, such as the present study. Both the high prevalence of smoking and the high levels of exposure to tobacco show a population at increased risk for tobacco-related disease. These call for immediate action to reduce smoking prevalence, help smokers quit and protect the health of non-smokers. The present study's conclusions provide the basis for designing local prevention programs and the baseline for monitoring of future trends in the area.