Exploring the role of sex differences in the relationship between sex partner attitudes and current quit attempt among a sample of smokers

INTRODUCTION: Limited research has explored sex differences in the relationship between partner support and smoking cessation among minority low-income population. Further, scarce attention has been given to the influence of partners who are not married. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between negative and positive social support provided by partners and smoking cessation among men and women smokers. METHODS: Data were collected as part of the Tobacco Use in Drug Environment (TIDE) study, a cross-sectional study conducted in Baltimore, Maryland, from September 2013 to May 2015. Interviews were administered with current smokers. The sample size for the current analysis was 134 men and 86 women. RESULTS: Approximately 33% of male participants (n=45) reported currently trying to quit smoking cigarettes and 29% of women were currently trying to quit. Having a sex partner who did not mind the participant’s smoking was associated with decreased odds of trying to quit among men (AOR=0.35; 95% CI: 0.13–0.91, p=0.03). Having a sex partner who expressed concern about the participant’s smoking (AOR=12.9; 95% CI: 3.49–47.0, p<0.01) and having a sex partner who encouraged the participant to quit smoking was significantly associated with current quit attempt among women. In supplementary analyses, we found that each type of partner support varied based on the type of partner – committed or casual. CONCLUSIONS: Understanding sex-partner support regarding smoking and their relationship to smoking cessation activities may provide insights for future tailored cessation interventions.