Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #102256

Raquel Fosados, MPH¹, Mary Ann Pentz, PhD², and Thomas W. Valente, PhD¹. (1) Keck School of Medicine, Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Southern California, 1000 Fremont Avenue, Unit 8, Alhambra, CA 91803, 310-980-3814, fosados@usc.edu, (2) Institute for Prevention Research, School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1441 Eastlake Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90089-9176

Background: Latino immigrants, irrespective of country of origin, residing in the US report higher rates of substance and alcohol use when compared to Latinos living in their original country of birth. In our review, we focused on locating studies conducted with adult Latino immigrants that identified variables predictive of alcohol and substance use. We also proposed recommendations for a peer opinion led (POL) model to convey health promotion messages among this population. Methods: We conducted a literature review to identify studies published between 1966 and 2004 that examined the relationship between alcohol and substance use and various measures among Latino immigrants. Articles that were excluded included those that involved adolescents, were conducted outside of the US, and those whose outcome of study was not either alcohol or substance use. Findings: Although more studies are needed in this area with this population, especially prevention intervention studies, the findings suggest that acculturation; years living in the US; attitudes, norms, and intentions toward alcohol and substance use; lack of social support; stress and depression; and social roles are all significant predictors of alcohol and substance use among adult Latino immigrants. Alcohol and substance use prevention intervention planners should consider incorporating these items into a program, especially those of norms. By redefining behavioral norms, such as supporting a substance and alcohol free life, within the context of Latino immigrants' social networks, the population can eventually support and maintain low or no substance and alcohol use. This can be accomplished by using a POL model.

Learning Objectives: Learning Objectives

• Identify the variables predictive of alcohol and substance use among adult Latino immigrants.
• Discuss the incorporation of POL model for an alcohol and substance use prevention intervention.

Keywords: Latino Health, Alcohol

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.