Factors Associated with the Intention to Quit Smoking in Elderly Korean Men: The Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2010-2015

BACKGROUND: Tobacco smoking is the most preventable cause of diseases and death in older adults. This study aimed to evaluate the factors associated with the intention to quit smoking in elderly Korean men. METHODS: We investigated 813 male smokers aged 65 years or more from the 5th and 6th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2010–2015. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors related with smoking cessation intention. RESULTS: Of the respondents, 26.3% had the intention to quit smoking. After adjustment for confounding factors, the intention to quit smoking was significantly associated with a history of ischemic heart disease (adjusted odds ratio, 1.88; 95% confidence interval, 1.02–3.48). CONCLUSION: Identifying the factors related to the intention to quit smoking among older adults can help in developing effective smoking cessation strategies for this section of the population.