Association between intimate partner violence victimization and smoking initiation and cessation among married adults in Korea

Abstract

Background: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a global public health concern. Although some studies have identified cross-sectional associations between IPV victimization and smoking, longitudinal research remains limited. This study investigated the association between IPV victimization and smoking initiation and cessation among Korean adults. Methods: This study included adult participants from the Korean Welfare Panel Study 2009-2023 (n = 13,450; observations = 108,932). Experiences of non-physical and overt physical IPV within the past year were assessed. The outcome measure was the incidence of smoking initiation and cessation in the following year. Generalized estimating equations were used to account for repeated measures. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to represent the associations. Results: Among the overall sample, individuals exposed to non-physical or physical IPV had 1.36-fold (95% CI: 1.18-1.56) and 2.69-fold (95% CI: 1.77-4.08) higher odds of smoking initiation, respectively, compared to those not exposed to IPV. Furthermore, verbal IPV, threats of physical IPV, and physical IPV were associated with 1.43fold (95% CI: 1.24-1.63), 1.74-fold (95% CI: 1.26-2.39), and 2.44-fold (95% CI: 1.60-3.72) increased odds of smoking initiation, respectively. These associations were observed in both men and women. However, no clear association was found between IPV and smoking cessation in the subsequent years. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that individuals who experienced IPV had an increased likelihood of smoking initiation one year after exposure. Consequently, policy interventions aimed at preventing IPV are warranted.