Ethnic differences in tobacco use during pregnancy: findings from a primary care sample in São Paulo, Brazil

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OBJECTIVES: Tobacco use during pregnancy is a global health concern. To date the majority of research originates in developed countries, thus we have a need to better understand factors related to maternal health in developing countries. We examine the prevalence and correlates of smoking by ethnicity in a sample of pregnant primary care patients in São Paulo, Brazil. DESIGN: Data were obtained from completed surveys during perinatal care visits in primary care clinics. We examine a sample of 811 pregnant women surveyed during 20-30 weeks of pregnancy. Multiple logistic regression was used to obtain odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). RESULTS: We found significant ethnic differences in smoking during pregnancy. Compared to White women, Black women were more likely to use tobacco during pregnancy (OR: 1.95; 95% CI: 1.16-3.27). In the fully adjusted model, when accounting for common mental disorders, differences in smoking during pregnancy by ethnicity remained (OR: 1.96; 95% CI: 1.14-3.36). CONCLUSIONS: There are ethnic differences in tobacco use during pregnancy. Clinical implications including universal screening for tobacco use during pregnancy and culturally relevant approaches to smoking cessation are suggested.