Trends in Smoking During Pregnancy in Wisconsin, 2011-2016

Background: Smoking during pregnancy remains a significant public health concern with widespread social, economic, and health effects.

Objective: To describe the epidemiology of maternal smoking in Wisconsin over time and by county, age, race/ethnicity, education, and other characteristics.

Methods: Cigarette smoking during pregnancy in 2011-2016 was evaluated using Wisconsin Interactive Statistics on Health data.

Results: Maternal smoking rates declined from 14.4% in 2011 to 11.4% in 2016. Rates are highest among women aged 20-24 and those with less education. American Indians had the highest rates of smoking during pregnancy at all education levels.

Conclusion: Despite continued declines in the rates of smoking during pregnancy in Wisconsin, disparities exist for American Indians, young, and less-educated women. Physicians should continue to encourage cessation throughout pregnancy and support evidence-based community programs and policies.