The relationship between depressive symptoms and cigarette smoking in US adolescents

Aims. Data from the Teenage Attitudes and Practices Survey were analyzed to assess the relationship between depressive symptoms and cigarette smoking. Designs, Setting, Participants. Nationally representative sample of adolescents interviewed in 1989 and again in 1993. Measurements. Prevalence rate and adjusted odds ratio for smoking at follow-up by depressive symptoms status at baseline. Findings. Adolescents with depressive symptoms were more likely than other adolescents to start smoking. Conclusions. The associations between depressive symptoms and regular smoking appears to be established by adolescence.