Clinical Research Unit PRODIGY

Étude NICO

NDIT is a prospective cohort investigation of 1,293 students recruited in 1999 from all Grade 7 classes in ten secondary schools in Montreal. Its main objective is to describe the development of symptoms of nicotine dependence (ND) in relation to cigarette smoking in adolescents and to identify genetic, socio-demographic, psychosocial, and environmental risk factors for the onset of cigarette use and ND symptoms. In addition, to contribute toward the study of other risk factors for cancer and cardiovascular disease, self-report data were collected on physical activity, sedentary behaviors, diet and alcohol use. Participants in the NDIT study have now graduated from secondary school and moved into the job market or on to CEGEP or university. From 2007 to 2012, data will be collected on their cigarette smoking experience as young adults. This phase of the study will provide a more in-depth understanding of late-onset smoking and cessation as these young people take on new roles and responsibilities in the work force as spouses and/or as parents.