We describe characteristics of participants in a Veterans Affairs out-patient smoking cessation program. To date, 43 patients (37 white and 6 African American; 3 female and 40 male; age range 31 to 74 years) have participated. Prior to referral, each individual is assessed as to stage of readiness for change. Once enrolled, observations include the Fagerstrom nicotine dependence test, the Why I Smoke questionnaire (craving, stress relief, stimulation, relaxation, handling, and habit), physical co-morbidity, and psychiatric co-morbidity including a Beck depression inventory. As expected, there is positive correlation between the Fagerstrom score and scores for craving (r=0.56, p < 0.05), stress relief (r=0.47, p < 0.05), and habit (r=0.50, p < 0.05). African Americans were less likely than whites to smoke because of habit (p < 0.05). In addition, African Americans had lower levels of education, and among all participants, 78% (7/9) who completed four group sessions had at least some college education versus 32% (11/34) of those who did not complete the program (p < 0.001). On a preliminary basis, these results suggest that both African American and white participants share many important characteristics. However, the observed differences in motivation for smoking and levels of education are consistent with the need for focused program modifications to reduce disparities within this population. Enrollment and evaluation are ongoing.
Learning Objectives: Attendees will be able to list descriptive characteristics used for planning to eliminate disparities in a smoking cessation program, and will be able to discuss differences observed between African American and white participants
Keywords: Smoking Cessation, Minority Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Cigarettes will be mentioned, but the data do not include identification of specific organizations or institutions involved in cigarette production
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: I am a resident at Meharry Medical College.