Previously reported ST use rates among male college student-athletes have ranged as high as 54%. Year 2000 National Health Objective 3.9 called for a reduction of spit tobacco (ST) use by males aged 12-24 to a prevalence of no more than four percent. Athletes who want to quit ST might choose to do so "on their own" or with assistance. College health services are a potential source of cessation help. From 1996 to 1999 we surveyed 5000 male athletes at 56 randomly selected National Collegiate Athletic Association institutions. We assessed the prevalence of regular and daily ST use among these athletes as well as their knowledge of sources of ST cessation assistance including their campus health services. We also assessed the actual availability and nature of ST cessation services at our study sites. Suggestions for developing and marketing school-based ST cessation services for college student-athletes are discussed.
Learning Objectives: 1. Describe prevalence of spit tobacco (ST) and cigarette smoking among college student-athletes. 2. Identify selected ST cessation methods and potential sources of cessation assistance available to college students in general and student-athletes in particular. 3. Discuss student-athletes' perceptions of the availability of school based cessation services. 4. Suggest strategies for marketing school based services to student-athletes
Keywords: School-Based Health Care, Spit Tobacco
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: National Collegiate Athletic Association
National Cancer Institute
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: This study was supported by grant #R01CA67882-04 from the National Cancer Institute