Association of Smoking with Respiratory Conditions and Lung Cancer in the United States: Analysis of 2023 BRFSS Data
Abstract
Background : Cigarette smoking is a leading cause of chronic respiratory diseases, including COPD and lung cancer, contributing significantly to the global burden of preventable illness. Lung cancer alone leads to over one million deaths each year, with smoking accounting for roughly 90% of cases in men and 70-80% in women. Moreover, COPD may play a role in lung cancer development by promoting oxidative stress, DNA damage, and inflammation. This study examines the relationship between smoking and lung cancer or respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD, while accounting for other risk factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study utilized data from the 2023 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). Tobacco use and the presence of respiratory illnesses, including COPD and lung cancer, were identified through the BRFSS questionnaire. A total of 26,779 participants were included in the analysis, and logistic regression was performed to assess associations. Results: Even minimal tobacco use was linked to an increased risk of respiratory conditions and lung cancer (OR = 2.065, 95% CI: 2.051–2.078). In addition, female gender (OR = 1.217, 95% CI: 1.209–1.225), older age (65+ vs. 18-24; OR = 1.255, 95% CI: 1.235–1.277), low income (under $25K vs. over $100K; OR = 2.035, 95% CI: 2.014–2.057), and lower education levels (less than high school vs. higher education; OR = 1.631, 95% CI: 1.621–1.642) were all associated with higher risk. Poor or fair general health status further elevated the risk (OR = 2.094, 95% CI: 2.080–2.108) compared to good or better health status. Conclusion: This study highlights the strong association between smoking and an increased risk of respiratory diseases and lung cancer. These results call for a comprehensive approach that addresses smoking and its associated risk factors, promoting disease prevention and healthier lifestyles through education and public health initiatives.
Start Time
16-4-2025 9:00 AM
End Time
16-4-2025 11:30 AM
Presentation Type
Poster
Presentation Category
Health
Student Type
Graduate Student - Masters
Faculty Mentor
Shimin Zheng
Faculty Department
Biostatistics and Epidemiology
Association of Smoking with Respiratory Conditions and Lung Cancer in the United States: Analysis of 2023 BRFSS Data
Background : Cigarette smoking is a leading cause of chronic respiratory diseases, including COPD and lung cancer, contributing significantly to the global burden of preventable illness. Lung cancer alone leads to over one million deaths each year, with smoking accounting for roughly 90% of cases in men and 70-80% in women. Moreover, COPD may play a role in lung cancer development by promoting oxidative stress, DNA damage, and inflammation. This study examines the relationship between smoking and lung cancer or respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD, while accounting for other risk factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study utilized data from the 2023 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). Tobacco use and the presence of respiratory illnesses, including COPD and lung cancer, were identified through the BRFSS questionnaire. A total of 26,779 participants were included in the analysis, and logistic regression was performed to assess associations. Results: Even minimal tobacco use was linked to an increased risk of respiratory conditions and lung cancer (OR = 2.065, 95% CI: 2.051–2.078). In addition, female gender (OR = 1.217, 95% CI: 1.209–1.225), older age (65+ vs. 18-24; OR = 1.255, 95% CI: 1.235–1.277), low income (under $25K vs. over $100K; OR = 2.035, 95% CI: 2.014–2.057), and lower education levels (less than high school vs. higher education; OR = 1.631, 95% CI: 1.621–1.642) were all associated with higher risk. Poor or fair general health status further elevated the risk (OR = 2.094, 95% CI: 2.080–2.108) compared to good or better health status. Conclusion: This study highlights the strong association between smoking and an increased risk of respiratory diseases and lung cancer. These results call for a comprehensive approach that addresses smoking and its associated risk factors, promoting disease prevention and healthier lifestyles through education and public health initiatives.