Analysis of State-Specific Prevalence, Regional Differences, and Correlates of Hookah Use in US Adults, 2012-2013

Objective: To investigate the state-specific prevalence, regional differences, and correlates of hookah use among U.S. adults. Methods: We analyzed the most recent nationally representative data of adults from the National Adult Tobacco Survey (NATS) 2012-2013 (n = 60 192). State-specific prevalence of lifetime and current hookah use was calculated and mapped. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to determine the association between sociodemographic characteristics, regional differences, and hookah use. Results: Among U.S. adults (= 18 years), overall prevalence of lifetime hookah use was 12.3%, while current use was 3.9%. Mapping of state-specific prevalence revealed that the West tended to have higher rates of use, while the South tended to have lower ones. In the adjusted model, we observed that current hookah use was positively associated with younger adults, males, non-Hispanic adults, those with higher education and income statuses, being single, those living in the West, and current cigarette use. Conclusion: The prevalence of hookah use varies by state, region, and sociodemographic characteristics among adults. Future research, including longitudinal studies, are needed to identify geographic and sociodemographic characteristics and trends among hookah users, investigate hookah-related health outcomes, and evaluate targeted public health efforts aimed at this emerging threat. Implications: This study investigates state-level prevalence, regional differences, and sociodemographic characteristics of hookah use among U.S. adults, using the most recent NATS. Hookah use was positively associated with younger adults and those living in the West. This study adds to the understanding of the geographic and sociodemographic factors underlying hookah use, which can be used to develop much needed evidence-based regulations and programs that are responsive to the needs of different risk groups.