Prospective examination of cigarette smoking among Iraq-deployed and nondeployed soldiers: prevalence and predictive characteristics.

Background: Identifying characteristics that influence smoking behavior among military personnel is critical to protect health and operational functioning.

Purpose: This study prospectively examined rates of cigarette smoking and predictors of changes in smoking behavior as a function of Iraq deployment.

Methods: One thousand eighty-two US Army soldiers (n = 773 Iraq-deployed; n = 309 nondeployed) completed assessments at two sessions [time 1: April 2003-July 2004; time 2: May 2004-July 2004 (nondeployers); January 2005-September 2006 (deployers)].

Results: Approximately 48 % of participants smoked at both time points, with 6 % initiating smoking and 6 % quitting. Smoking initiation was associated with warzone stress exposure; female gender and high military unit support predicted cessation. Military rank and alcohol use were associated with both smoking initiation and cessation.

Conclusion: Findings highlight the potential benefits of targeting risk factors for cigarette smoking in comprehensive military health programs aimed at smoking prevention and cessation.