Smoking prevalence among doctors and nurses— 2013 New Zealand census data

Making Education Easy

Authors:

Edwards R et al.

June 1, 2018

Summary:

The 2013 New Zealand Census included 7,065 male and 5,619 female doctors, and 2,988 male and 36,138 female nurses; 2% of male and female doctors and 9% of male and 8% of female nurses were regular cigarette smokers. Corresponding rates in the 2006 Census were all higher: 4% of male and 3% of female doctors were regular cigarette smokers, as were 20% of male and 13% of female nurses. In the 2013 Census, psychiatric nurses had the highest smoking prevalence (15% male, 18% female). Smoking was more common among Māori doctors (6.8%) and nurses (19.3%). Around 96% of young (<25 years) doctors and 87% of young nurses had never been regular smokers.

Comment:

See next paper.

Reference: N Z Med J. 2018;131(1471):48-57

Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

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