There is an inverse gradient relationship between smoking and income. Interestingly, low-income African-American (AA) adolescents have the lowest prevalence rates of cigarette smoking compared with other ethnic groups; however, low-income AA adults have among the highest prevalence rates of cigarette smoking. The factors that influence this paradoxical pattern of cigarette use from adolescence to adulthood remains to be determined. Identification of ethnic specific factors that influence smoking acquisition among AA adults is necessary for the development of culturally-sensitive and effective smoking prevention and cessation programs. Consequently, the goal of the first phase of this pilot study was to use a theory-based approach to assess the specific cultural factors that influence the delay and subsequent initiation among AAs aged 17-35. Guided by the PEN-3 model, 14 focus groups, homogenous for gender were conducted with 118 members of the target population to determine salient themes specific to AAs. Qualitative data obtained indicated factors that protect AAs from early smoking initiation include: strong family influences, minimal effect of peer pressure, concerns regarding health effects and participation in sports. Ethnic-specific factors cited as enabling the initiation of smoking were: perceived disproportionate levels of stress by AAs compared to other ethnic groups, moving away from a protective home environment and combining alcohol with cigarette smoking in social situations. Focus group data will be used in the development and pilot-test of a culturally-appropriate survey for AAs. Identification of ethnic-specific factors that influence smoking behavior among this population is necessary for the development of effective interventions.
Learning Objectives: (1) To recognize the importance of collecting qualitative information when designing culturally-sensitive and effective smoking prevention and cessation programs to African Americans; (2) To recognize the importance of identifying factors that contribute to smoking initiation among low-income African Americans
Keywords: Ethnic Minorities, Smoking
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.