Understanding biopsychosocial factors influencing cigarette smoking among transgender and gender diverse individuals living in Argentina: a qualitative study

Abstract Background The prevalence of cigarette smoking among transgender women in Argentina is 42%, more than double the rate compared to cisgender women. Objectives To understand biopsychosocial factors influencing cigarette smoking among transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals living in...

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Main Authors: Romina Caballero, Estefania Panizoni, Raúl Mejía, Ana Zeltman, Nadir Fernanda Cardozo, Alixida Ramos-Pibernus, Ash B. Alpert, Ana Paula Cupertino, Francisco Cartujano-Barrera, Ines Aristegui
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: BMC 2025-07-01
Series:International Journal for Equity in Health
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Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1186/s12939-025-02563-7
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Summary:Abstract Background The prevalence of cigarette smoking among transgender women in Argentina is 42%, more than double the rate compared to cisgender women. Objectives To understand biopsychosocial factors influencing cigarette smoking among transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals living in Argentina. Methods Between December 2023 and January 2024, 19 qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted face-to-face with TGD individuals. TGD peer navigators recruited participants using community-based strategies. The biobehavioral model of nicotine addiction was the theoretical framework for the qualitative analysis. Results we identified important biological, psychological, and social factors. Biological factors included: (1) Negative impact of cigarette smoking on health (e.g., medical gender affirmation), and (2) nicotine dependence. Psychological factors included: (1) Emotions (e.g., loneliness), (2) psychological disorders, (3) coping strategies (e.g., gender minority stress), (4) cognition and beliefs (e.g., psychological gender affirmation), (5) routine behavior, and (6) substance use. Social factors included: (1) social influence, (2) social acceptance of smoking, (3) social support, (4) gender-based stigma, discrimination, and violence, and (5) contextual factors (i.e., work environments). Conclusion These results provide important insights to be considered when developing a tailored smoking cessation intervention for TGD individuals living in Argentina.
ISSN:1475-9276