Among different racial groups, which has the highest percentage of smokers during pregnancy?

The choice of American Indian and Alaskan Natives as the group with the highest percentage of smokers during pregnancy is supported by research indicating that this demographic experiences significant challenges related to smoking rates. Various studies have shown that American Indian and Alaskan Native women have historically reported higher rates of smoking during pregnancy compared to other racial groups. This is attributable to a combination of cultural, socio-economic, and healthcare access factors that contribute to the prevalence of tobacco use among these populations.

In contrast, the other groups listed have varying rates of smoking during pregnancy, with certain cultural norms, protective factors, and healthcare interventions often resulting in lower percentages. For example, Asian or Pacific Islanders generally exhibit some of the lowest smoking rates during pregnancy due to differences in cultural attitudes towards smoking and higher rates of healthcare engagement. Non-Hispanic blacks and Non-Hispanic whites also show lower rates compared to American Indian and Alaskan Native populations, influenced by socio-economic factors and public health efforts aimed at reducing smoking during pregnancy.

Understanding these trends is important for tailoring public health initiatives and interventions aimed at reducing smoking among pregnant women across different racial and ethnic backgrounds. These insights help inform strategies that address the unique needs of each group, thereby promoting healthier outcomes for mothers and infants.