Do cigarette smokers have unrealistic perceptions of their heart attack, cancer, and stroke risks?

Abstract

This study examined whether perceived risks of heart attack, cancer, and stroke were higher among smokers than nonsmokers; whether smokers were more likely to underestimate these risks; and the demographic correlates of unrealistic risk estimation among smokers. Two thousand seven hundred eight-five patients from 12 North Carolina family practices completed a questionnaire including a health risk appraisal and questions concerning smoking behavior and perceived risks of heart attack, cancer, and stroke. While most smokers accurately perceived their health risks to be greater than nonsmokers', smokers were also more likely to underestimate their risks. This optimistic distortion of risk was associated with age, gender, and education levels. Smokers may not yet understand the magnitude of health risks posed by smoking. These data suggest the need for renewed attention to perceptions of the health risks of smoking. As long as smokers underestimate their risks, they underestimate the imperative to quit.

Unrealistic Optimism: Still a Neglected Trait

“…Most people believe they are more capable than average and that their chances of a better future are higher than those of others. However, these self-serving biases do not only emerge when people compare themselves to others, but are also present in absolute terms (Weinstein, Rothman, & Klein, 1996); (Strecher, Kreuter, & Kobrin, 1995). Indeed, there is evidence that normal, mentally healthy individuals' perceptions of reality are characterized not by an accurate assessment of their personal qualities, a realistic estimate of their degree of personal control, and a realistic outlook on the future, but are biased and self-serving.…”

“…Although less researched, there is also substantial evidence that absolute UO not only exists but is the norm , (Strecher et al, 1995), Coelho (2004)). …”

Smokers and drinkers awareness of oral cancer: a qualitative study using focus groups

“…One other notable quantitative study 15 showed a similar low level of perception. Other studies have shown that smokers underestimate the risks to their health, 16 or understand the well-known connections (for example lung cancer) but not the other health problems. 17 Our study confirms the ignorance of the risks of oral cancer and offers some new insight into the attitudes and perceptions that accompany this.…”

Smoking during early adolescence. A study in schoolchildren from Argentina

“…Un dato interesante es que no hubo diferencias entre fumadores y no fumadores conforme al grado de información recibida en la escuela sobre el tabaco y el daño a su salud. Existe, en este sentido, alguna evidencia de otros estudios de que el aumento de conocimientos impartidos en la escuela no provoca reducción en la tasa de fumadores 9,24,25 . Intimidar a los niños con hechos mórbidos probablemente sea ineficaz.…”