Smoking is a core part of the identity and community life of agricultural workers

29 Aug 2025

Smoking is considered a serious health threat, particularly in the context of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Several studies have demonstrated a strong association between smoking and the severity of COVID-19, which may lead to an increased risk of death. Smoking may also contribute to the spread of the virus through the gathering and sharing of tobacco among smokers.

As meaning is purely subjective and can vary from one person to another, this study aims to add new insights into the meaning of smoking as perceived by a new set of participants—farmworkers—whose age, educational, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds, and experiences may differ from those in previous studies. It explores why farmworkers in the Southern Philippines continue smoking despite known health risks and anti-smoking campaigns. The study focuses on how these workers perceive smoking as part of their daily lives.

Using a qualitative narrative inquiry approach, the researchers interviewed seven male farmworkers to understand their personal stories and experiences with smoking. The findings revealed that smoking, influenced by family and friends, holds deep meaning for these individuals. It plays a role in socializing and is ingrained as a part of their daily routine. Furthermore, it helps manage stress and negative emotions, and serves as a mental stimulant.

Despite health warnings and high cigarette prices, smoking remains a core part of the group’s identity and community life. This study shows that smoking is not just a habit but a deeply rooted cultural practice among farmworkers, strengthened by social norms and emotional connections. Understanding these personal and social meanings can help develop more culturally sensitive smoking cessation programs designed for specific communities. The insights from this study can guide policymakers and health professionals in creating more effective public health campaigns to reduce smoking among vulnerable groups, especially in rural farming areas.

Authors: Reymark P. Malinda (University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines-Jasaan) and Benjamina Paula G. Flor (University of the Philippines Los Baños)

Read the full paper: https://journal.usep.edu.ph/index.php/Southeastern_Philippines_Journal/article/view/457

Smoking is a core part of the identity and community life of agricultural workers

Smoking is considered a serious health threat, particularly in the context of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Several studies have demonstrated a strong association between smoking and the severity of COVID-19, which may lead to an increased risk of death. Smoking may also contribute to the spread of the virus through the gathering and sharing of tobacco among smokers.

As meaning is purely subjective and can vary from one person to another, this study aims to add new insights into the meaning of smoking as perceived by a new set of participants—farmworkers—whose age, educational, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds, and experiences may differ from those in previous studies. It explores why farmworkers in the Southern Philippines continue smoking despite known health risks and anti-smoking campaigns. The study focuses on how these workers perceive smoking as part of their daily lives.

Using a qualitative narrative inquiry approach, the researchers interviewed seven male farmworkers to understand their personal stories and experiences with smoking. The findings revealed that smoking, influenced by family and friends, holds deep meaning for these individuals. It plays a role in socializing and is ingrained as a part of their daily routine. Furthermore, it helps manage stress and negative emotions, and serves as a mental stimulant.

Despite health warnings and high cigarette prices, smoking remains a core part of the group’s identity and community life. This study shows that smoking is not just a habit but a deeply rooted cultural practice among farmworkers, strengthened by social norms and emotional connections. Understanding these personal and social meanings can help develop more culturally sensitive smoking cessation programs designed for specific communities. The insights from this study can guide policymakers and health professionals in creating more effective public health campaigns to reduce smoking among vulnerable groups, especially in rural farming areas.

Authors: Reymark P. Malinda (University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines-Jasaan) and Benjamina Paula G. Flor (University of the Philippines Los Baños)

Read the full paper: https://journal.usep.edu.ph/index.php/Southeastern_Philippines_Journal/article/view/457