Socioeconomic inequalities and smoking cessation among Hungarian adults: evidence from the European health interview survey

Background: Smoking remains a major public health challenge in Hungary, where prevalence exceeds European and global averages despite comprehensive tobacco control measures. This study examines the socio-demographic and economic factors associated with smoking cessation among Hungarian adults. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using data from the 2019 European Health Interview Survey (EHIS). The study included 2,598 participants with a history of smoking, categorized as current smokers (58.4%) or former smokers (41.6%). Chi-square tests and weighted logistic regression models, including interaction terms, were applied to assess associations between smoking cessation and demographic and socioeconomic characteristics such as gender, age, education, income, employment, urbanization, and marital status. Results: Females, younger adults, those in remote areas, and unmarried, divorced, or widowed individuals had lower odds of smoking cessation, while higher education and higher-middle income were associated with higher odds of smoking cessation. Interaction analyses indicated that females, individuals with higher education, and those with greater income levels were associated with higher odds of smoking cessation, particularly among younger and middle-aged adults. Conclusion: These findings highlight the persistence of socioeconomic inequalities in smoking cessation within the Hungarian population and underscore the need for targeted interventions that address gender, educational, and regional disparities.