Regional Differences in Smoking, Drinking, and Physical Activities of Chinese Residents

Abstract

Aims. This article aims at analyzing regional differences in smoking, drinking, and physical activities in China and informing cross-regional initiatives addressing these behaviors. Methods. Data were extracted from available large-scale surveys. Index of dissimilarity (ID), linear correlation, and geographical mapping were used to analyze regional differences in the prevalence of smoking (PS), smoking cessation (PSC), regular drinking (PRD), and physical activities (PPA). Results. Significant differences existed across regions in all the behaviors ( P < .01). IDs ranged from 0.04 to 0.42. IDs of PRD and PPA were much higher than IDs of PS and PSC. Linear correlation coefficients of the 4 indicators by regions varied substantially ranging (in absolute value) from 0.031 to 0.982. Characteristic formats of geographical distribution were found with PS, PSC, and PRD and PPA being in “high plateau,” “low plateau,” and “shifting” patterns, respectively. Conclusions. Distinct regional disparities in health behavior exist, and socioculturally and contextually competitive policies and interventions are needed.