Smoking Women: Rising Trends and Health Impacts

Why do smoking rates among women vary? This article explores recent trends among smoking in women, details demographic differences, examines health risks, and reviews targeted interventions.

Key Takeaways

• Smoking rates among women in England have decreased to 9.9% in 2023 and over the past decade, but trends vary significantly across different demographic groups.

• Young women show a decline in traditional smoking but an increase in vaping, while middle-class women’s smoking rates have risen sharply from 11.7% to 14.9%.

• Female smokers face severe health risks, including fertility issues and heightened vulnerabilities to diseases, necessitating targeted cessation programs and resources.

The Prevalence of Smoking Among Women

To craft effective strategies for reducing tobacco use, it is crucial to understand these evolving trends. Subsequently, we will dissect these variations more closely by examining how smoking tendencies differ among various categories such as young, middle-class and less advantaged female smokers. Exploring the disparate patterns of smoking among different social strata as well as the risks smoking poses specifically to women.

Young Women and Smoking Trends

Among young women aged 18 to 24, smoking rates have gradually declined over the last decade. The Smoking Toolkit Study findings suggest a significant drop from 25.7% in 2011 to 9,8% by 2023. However, while traditional smoking has decreased, vaping has surged, with 8.7% of young women reporting vaping in 2023, compared to just 5.1% in 2013. Programs targeting females under 45 can prevent smoking addiction and reduce the risk of relapse. These initiatives help sustain the decrease in smoking rates among young women.

Middle Class Women and Smoking

Contrary to the trends observed among young women, smoking rates among middle-class women aged 18 to 45 have increased significantly. Between 2013 and 2023, the smoking rate rose from 11.7% to 14.9%. This increase is particularly concerning given the overall decline in smoking rates in other demographics. Although this demographic overlaps with the same age group above it does cement how tobacco addiction is not simply about young vs old but rather is multifaceted.

Less Advantaged Female Smokers

Historically, females with fewer advantages have maintained higher rates of smoking compared to women from more advantaged social groups. There has been a marked reduction in the prevalence of smoking among less advantaged female smokers, decreasing from 29% in 2013 to 14.3% by 2023 despite their economic hardships.

This downward trend underscores the success of specific measures aimed at reducing smoking but also points to a continued necessity for assistance and resources dedicated to lowering these rates within this demographic. The decrease may also point to the hardships being felt by the cost of living.

Case Studies and Research Findings

Studies and investigations into smoking trends offer a crucial understanding concerning the habits of female smokers and how successful quitting strategies are. The latest findings suggest that in 2023, around 9.9% of adult women in the UK were smokers. This research underscores the need to continue raising the subject and keeping the spread of scientific knowledge going.

Subsequent parts will explore particular studies and their results, providing an enhanced grasp on the patterns of smoking among females as well as evaluating cessation measures’ effectiveness. These findings are vital to shaping public health approaches focused on diminishing rates within this demographic. One thing to keep in mind while reading, although the numbers are shocking and impactful, quitting is possible and the body begins to heal almost immediately after quitting.

Smoking Toolkit Study

The Smoking Toolkit Study actively observes trends and behaviours associated with smoking in England by conducting monthly interviews with 1,700 adults who are representative of the general population. This data collection contributes to shaping public health policies and initiatives that focus on decreasing smoking rates specifically among women.

From these findings, it is apparent that effective interventions and strategic public health measures have significant potential to lower smoking in more advantaged social groups, younger ages and less advantaged women. Which in turn can lead to improved health results for women.

The evidence detailed above indicates a noteworthy change in smoking habits, which is particularly troubling for the health of these women due to the specific hazards linked with smoking. It is crucial that this shift be acknowledged so as to devise public health strategies that can effectively address and counteract this issue.

Contributions from Experts

Specialists have observed a notable increase in the prevalence of smoking among middle-class women, in conjunction with the decrease of tobacco being used by same-age groups from less advantaged backgrounds. We have researched a variety of studies from Brian W Whitcomb and Alexandra C Purdue-Smithe studies on fertility to Professor Anthony Swerdlow and Dr Michael Jones on breast cancer research to provide the scientific data with robust measures to be best informed. Everything we have read simply reinforces what organizations such as Cancer Research UK and ASH say, that smoking for anyone but even more so for women is harmful.

The expertise provided accentuates the essential need for customized strategies and support structures which take into account the varied challenges encountered by female smokers. By meeting these requirements, there can be a substantial improvement in the success rates of efforts aimed at quitting smoking, consequently enhancing health outcomes among women.

Health Risks Specific to Women Smokers

The health hazards associated with smoking for women are particularly severe, exceeding those faced by men. Women who smoke grapple with a plethora of medical concerns ranging from reproductive challenges and complications during pregnancy to heightened cancer risks.

Recognizing these dangers is pivotal in confronting the horrendous damage wrought by tobacco consumption among women. The below segments will delve into an examination of how smoking impinges upon fertility, impacts the welfare of infants, amplifies susceptibility to diseases, and contributes to economic strains along with professional setbacks that afflict female smokers.

Smoking Reduces Fertility

Smoking has a considerable negative impact on female fertility, leading to more difficulties in conceiving than those faced by non-smokers. Women who smoke tend to have less regular menstrual cycles, adding another barrier to becoming pregnant. The chemicals in cigarettes have been shown to reduce mature oocytes (the stage where an egg is developing) by 2.5 times and embryos by 2 times. As well as this it can cause earlier onset of menopause by one to four years. This egg depletion results in a greater likelihood of infertility among women who smoke when compared with those who don’t, as shown in this study by Brian W Whitcomb and Alexandra C Purdue-Smithe.

Although the above information is daunting and serious for young women wishing to start a family, it is not all doom and gloom. Brian W Whitcomb and Alexandra C Purdue-Smithe state in their conclusion of the study that these increases are directly correlated with current smokers and not previous smokers, showing that with quitting your body can begin to heal and recover from the effects of cigarettes. However, it should serve as a reminder that smoking reduces fertility.

Poor Infant Health

The act of smoking while pregnant drastically increases the likelihood of encountering complications, including early delivery, dangerously low birth weight and poor infant health. When mothers smoke during pregnancy, it can obstruct the supply of oxygen and vital nutrients to the unborn child, culminating in grave medical conditions. It also prevents the proper growth of several organs and brain stem. This constraint on proper development has been shown to provoke delays in growth as well as an elevated susceptibility to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), of which 30% of cases is caused by smoking during pregnancy.

Efforts towards reducing smoking amongst expectant mothers have been directly correlated with enhanced health and development for infants. A noticeable decrease in the prevalence of smoking among this demographic is instrumental in fostering the best health possible for the next generation.

Cancer and Other Diseases

Female smokers encounter a considerably elevated likelihood of contracting lung cancer compared to those who do not smoke. Smoking tobacco increases the danger of heart disease and various severe respiratory conditions. In a meta-analysis study conducted by Seth Kligerman and Charles White they noted that when comparing lunch cancer rates between men and women who smoke 40 packs a year women lung cancer rates were 27.9% (when compared to non-smokers) whereas men were only 9.6% (when compared to non-smokers). This serves as a sobering indication of the destructive damage that can be wrought by tobacco consumption.

Institutions such as Cancer Research UK and The Institute of Cancer Research emphasize the need to stop smoking in order to decrease occurrences of Breast Cancer among women. In a study conducted by Professor Anthony Swerdlow and Dr Michael Jones of 140,000 women over 40 years, they observed that out of the 102,927 women in the study who developed cancer, only 1,815 did not or had not smoked. That is 98% of those in the study who developed cancer. In such a big sample size with such a figure, the link between tobacco and cancer is undeniable and cements just how dangerous it is for women in particular.

The magnified health hazards highlight the urgency for successful programs aimed at cessation of smoking, coupled with public health strategies.

Financial Pressures

The cumulative expenses of buying cigarettes and the other financial pressures associated with smoking often place considerable financial burdens on less advantaged women who smoke. This strain is acutely felt by those from less affluent backgrounds when compared to more advantaged women, as it can siphon off money required for necessities like food, heating, child care, and amenities.

Amidst rising living costs, disadvantaged women are particularly affected, and although the rate of smoking has decreased as we noted earlier they are also turning to less expensive alternatives such as cheaper hand-rolled cigarettes and more harmful forms which can be purchased at a discount which will hit women harder and more dangerously. These companies deliberately prey on women going through job losses. It’s crucial to address these economic challenges and to provide affordable alternatives with robust measures that can aid in quitting smoking tobacco to support women in their efforts to quit smoking.

SMOKO offers affordable vaping starter kits (starting from £7.99) as well as affordable refills cutting the cost per day from £14 to only £2 to alleviate financial pressures caused by your own cigarettes.

The correlation between the propensity to smoke and elevated instances of unemployment is especially pronounced for women holding unskilled roles. The likelihood of being jobless rises among these women because their smoking habits can lead to health complications that affect their employment. In the 2024 ASH statistics, they showed that in unemployment numbers 20% smoked cigarettes compared to in employment which was only 12%.

Greater Burden on Health Services

It is a matter of fact that smoking directly impacts health services in every country, especially the NHS. As we described above, women smokers are even more at risk of developing long-term diseases and having dangerous implications while in childbirth and after. In 2014/2015 there were nearly 475,000 cases in the NHS related to smoking and an estimated cost of £2.6 billion each year. These statistics include both men and women, and it is crucial for all to quit smoking to lessen the burden on health services.

It is crucial to implement strong measures aimed at reducing this impact. Decreasing smoking rates among men and women can alleviate stress on medical care facilities and improve overall public health results.

Efforts to Reduce Smoking Among Women

Numerous programs have been developed to tackle the distinct challenges women encounter when they begin using cigarettes and attempt to quit. Tailored specifically for their needs, these initiatives play a crucial role in decreasing the rate of smoking among women.

In subsequent segments, we will delve into services to help prevent smoking and targeted interventions, alongside entities such as SMOKO that provide essential support for women striving to overcome tobacco addiction. These strategies are integral in combating the detrimental impact of smoking on female populations.

Stop Smoking Services

Services designed to assist in quitting smoking have demonstrated significant efficacy, particularly for women. According to the NCSCT (National Centre for Smoking Cessation Training) those who take advantage of these services are three times more likely to succeed in quitting compared with those who try on their own without support. In a survey study conducted by Philip H Smith and Karin A Kasza their results showed although there was no difference in desire to quit between men and women, however, the success rate when women tried to quit with no assistance was 31% lower. The combination of behavioural support and pharmacological treatments like nicotine replacement therapy is instrumental in improving quit rates for women.

Compared to men, women tend to utilize formal cessation programs more frequently, highlighting the crucial role these services play in diminishing smoking rates among female populations. The success of these services highlights their critical contribution to public health initiatives aimed at reducing tobacco prevalence.

Targeted Intervention Programs

Entities such as ourselves here at SMOKO are instrumental in delivering support and resources specifically designed for women who are attempting to cease using their own cigarettes and move onto vaping devices which healthcare professionals have stated are 95% healthier. We present cost-effective options and supportive frameworks that cater to the unique requirements of women on their journey to quitting smoking through specialized programs. Our starter kit deals start from only £7.99 in three distinct styles; The E-cigarette (Cigalike, emulating a traditional cigarette look and sensation), The Vape Pod (our classic vape style) and the newest range The Vape MAX (emulating the disposable vape style, but with a rechargeable battery).

SMOKO’s provision of thorough assistance alongside budget-friendly choices plays a vital role in empowering women looking to overcome their nicotine addiction. By providing tools like initial kits, along with an assortment of nicotine strengths to help you lower your dosage over time, SMOKO assists females in gradually reducing their dependence on nicotine.

Summary

The challenge of smoking among women is a complex public health issue that encompasses diverse trends in behaviours across young, middle-class, and less advantaged women. Given the considerable health risks they encounter—from diminished fertility to poor infant births and heightened cancer susceptibility—as well as the financial burdens associated with tobacco, focused and inclusive strategies, are imperative for effectively tackling this concern.

Successful attempts to reduce women's smoking have been observed through initiatives specifically designed intervention programs. Entities such as ourselves at SMOKO play an essential role by offering affordable support tailored to help women quit. Persisting on these efforts and broadening their reach will lead to notable progress toward lowering smoking rates amongst females, thereby enhancing overall health prospects for all demographics of women.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the current smoking rates among women in England?

In England, as of 2023, the prevalence of smoking among women has decreased to 9.9% from the prior year’s rate of 12.7%, signalling an encouraging downward trend. The statistics are not simple, as the same age groups differ in the rise and fall of tobacco across different demographics such as in more advantaged women groups.

How does smoking affect women's fertility?

It significantly reduces women’s fertility by causing irregular menstrual cycles, reduced egg count and increased complications during pregnancy.

It’s crucial to consider these impacts when trying to conceive.

What are the health risks for infants born to mothers who smoke?

Infants born to mothers who smoke face significant health risks, including premature birth, low birth weight, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), and potential developmental delays.

These risks can have lasting impacts on their health and development.

What role do stop smoking services play in helping women quit?

These services play a crucial role in helping women quit by increasing their chances of success; women who utilize these services are three times more likely to quit than those who go it alone.

Seeking professional support can significantly enhance your quitting journey.

How do organizations like SMOKO support women in quitting smoking?

Companies such as SMOKO assist women who are trying to stop smoking by providing inexpensive starter kits and various nicotine choices in order to help you strategically quit without relapsing. SMOKO strives to be an affordable alternative for everyone and to help people stop buying cheap vapes and cheaper hand rolled cigarettes.

References

(1) Census - Adult smoking habits in the UK: 2023 

(2) Smoking In England - National statistics 

(3) ASH - Use of e-cigarettes (vapes) among adults in Great Britain 

(4) Van Voorhis BJ, Dawson JD, Stovall DW, Sparks AE, Syrop CH. The effects of smoking on ovarian function and fertility during assisted reproduction cycles. Obstet Gynecol. 1996 Nov;88(5):785-91. doi: 10.1016/0029-7844(96)00286-4. PMID: 8885914 

(5) Whitcomb BW, Purdue-Smithe AC, Szegda KL, Boutot ME, Hankinson SE, Manson JE, Rosner B, Willett WC, Eliassen AH, Bertone-Johnson ER. Cigarette Smoking and Risk of Early Natural Menopause. Am J Epidemiol. 2018 Apr 1;187(4):696-704. doi: 10.1093/aje/kwx292. PMID: 29020262; PMCID: PMC5888979. 

(6) Bednarczuk N, Milner A, Greenough A. The Role of Maternal Smoking in Sudden Fetal and Infant Death Pathogenesis. Front Neurol. 2020 Oct 23;11:586068. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2020.586068. PMID: 33193050; PMCID: PMC7644853.

(7) ASH - Smoking, Pregnancy and Fertility 

(8) Seth Kligerman and Charles White Epidemiology of Lung Cancer in Women: Risk Factors, Survival, and Screening 

(9) Cancer Research UK - Breast cancer and smoking: What is the link? 

(10) ICR (The Institute of Cancer research uk) - Smoking – particularly if started during adolescence – is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, major new study finds

(11) Jones, M.E., Schoemaker, M.J., Wright, L.B. et al. Smoking and risk of breast cancer in the Generations Study cohort. Breast Cancer Res 19, 118 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13058-017-0908-4

(12) SMOKO - Affordable Vaping and e-cigarette starter kits 

(13) NCSCT (National Centre for Smoking Cessation and Training) 

(14) Smith PH, Kasza KA, Hyland A, Fong GT, Borland R, Brady K, Carpenter MJ, Hartwell K, Cummings KM, McKee SA. Gender differences in medication use and cigarette smoking cessation: results from the International Tobacco Control Four Country Survey. Nicotine Tob Res. 2015 Apr;17(4):463-72. doi: 10.1093/ntr/ntu212. PMID: 25762757; PMCID: PMC4402353