The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #56270

Sharon Lin, MPH, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 2972 Windfield Circle, Tucker, GA 30084, (718)406-5077, shalinyo@yahoo.com

Although a few studies have assessed the health risk behaviors among Asian American adolescents, there is a paucity of data on adolescent risk assessment in relation to acculturation. Moreover, wide variation in the prevalence of risk behaviors among Asian American adolescent subgroups demonstrates the tremendous diversity and need for closer examination. Recent risk behavior prevalence among Chinese American adolescents reflects inconsistencies, most likely due to regional and other demographic differences. Determining the prevalence of risk behaviors among Chinese adolescents in New York City, where levels of acculturation vary considerably, will better inform health promotion programs targeting this population. The objectives of this study are to: 1) examine the prevalence of the health risk behaviors of substance abuse (tobacco, alcohol, and drug use, specifically) and sexual behaviors (e.g. intercourse and condom use) among Chinese adolescent patients (grades 9-12) at the Charles B. Wang Community Health Center (CBWCHC), 2) compare the Chinese adolescent risk behavior prevalence with the rates found in the national Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), and 3) examine the association between acculturation, gender, and risk behaviors among this population. This cross-sectional study uses a self-completed survey targeting a convenience sample of approximately 200 Chinese adolescent patients.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to:
• Identify the prevalence of substance use and sexual behavior among NYC Chinese adolescent patients.
• Assess the affect of acculturation on Chinese adolescent risk behavior.
• Articulate a strategy for conducting a adolescent risk assessment at the community-level.

Keywords: Adolescent Health, Asian Americans

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: The Charles B. Wand Community Health Center serves as location from which the data is collected. The Center collaborates with the Mailman School of Public Health in implementing this study.
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.