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

Abstract #72510

Alyssa N. Easton, PhD, MPH, Office on Smoking and Health, Epidemiology Branch, CDC, 4770 Buford Hwy., N.E, Mailstop K-50, Atlanta, GA 30341, 770.488.5106, ace7@cdc.gov and Heather Ryan, MPH, CDC/Office on Smoking and Health, CDC/Office on Smoking and Health, 4770 Buford Highway NE, MS-K50, Atlanta, GA 30341.

Purpose: To describe the prevalence and covariates of self-reported smoking behavior among gay and lesbian youth who participated in the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health Study). Significance: To date, no national data have been published on smoking among gay and lesbian youth. Numerous studies suggest that gay and lesbian youth may be at risk for high smoking prevalence. A recent review of the literature found that the rate of current smoking among youth ranged from 38% to 59%. Methods: The Add Health Study is nationally representative longitudinal study of the health-related behaviors of adolescents in grades 7-12. Participants from Wave I (conducted between September 1994 and December 1995) of the main in-home sample will be included in the analysis. Sexual orientation will be determined by questions asked on same-sex attractions, same-sex romantic relationships, and self-identification. Current smokers will be defined as having smoked on at least 1 day of the 30 days preceding the survey. Results: Of 12,000 participants in Wave I, over 800 reported same-sex attraction, same- sex romantic relationships, or identified as being gay or lesbian. Conclusion: While information in the published literature is limited, gay and lesbian youth appear to be at higher risk for smoking than heterosexual youth. The following analysis will contribute to the literature and knowledge base of smoking among gay and lesbian youth.

Learning Objectives:

• Discuss the prevalence of smoking among gay and lesbian youth.
• Articulate factors associated with smoking among gay and lesbian youth.
• Discuss unique considerations in terms of planning cessation and intervention programs targeted to gay and lesbian youth.

Keywords: Smoking, Gay

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.