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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Hal F. Johnson, Comprehensive Drug Research Group, University of Miami, c/o DCF Building 6, Room 319, 1317 Winewood Blvd., Tallahassee, FL 32399-0700, 850-413-6768, hal@nettally.com

American school-based adolescent substance use surveys have consistently shown ethnic differences. White, non-Hispanic students use at the highest rates, followed by Hispanic youth. Black youth use at the lowest rate. This pattern is consistent across nearly all ATOD categories. The Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey offers a unique opportunity to investigate some of these differences. Approximately one in five of Florida's 6-12 grade population is Hispanic/Latino, originating from a variety of countries. The 2006 survey administration is designed to obtain accurate county-level data, and as such is targeting approximately 70,000 students for participation during the survey window ending April 28, 2006. This presentation will examine the role of degree of acculturation in the differences between White and Hispanic student ATOD use. Specifically, the rate of binge drinking and current use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and any illicit drug other than marijuana will be examined. White, non-Hispanic prevalence rates will be compared to Hispanic rates for those that report primarily speaking Spanish at home and those primarily speaking English at home. Similar comparisons will be made of the prevalence rate differences between Hispanic/Latino students of various origins. These results should contribute to cultural competence, and prove useful in tailoring prevention programs for Hispanic/Latino youth.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

• Articulate the role of acculturation in differecnces in ATOD prevalence rates between White, non-Hispanic and Hispanic/Latino adolescents.
• Discuss the differences in ATOD prevalence rates among Hispanic/Latino adolescents of various origins.
• Identify the ATOD categories that are the most influenced by acculturation.

Keywords: Substance Abuse, Hispanic Youth

Related Web page: www.dcf.state.fl.us/mentalhealth/publications/fysas/

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered