Gender Differences in Perceived Risks and Benefits of Quitting Smoking among Korean Americans

Gender Differences in Perceived Risks and Benefits of Quitting Smoking among Korean Americans

Tobacco dependence is the leading cause of increased morbidity and mortality in many countries. It is estimated that tobacco use will cause approximately 450 million deaths worldwide during the next 50 years. Men in Korea are known for the highest rate of smoking in the world and subsequently Korean male immigrants smoke at a higher rate than the general U.S. male population. Based on a recent population-based tobacco survey in New York City, the rate of smoking among foreign-born Korean men was 36% versus 16% for the whole city male population.