Tobacco-Related Disparities in Specific Populations

Research

The role of ethnic pride and parental disapproval of smoking on smoking behaviors among minority and white adolescents in a suburban high school
Parental disapproval and ethnic pride may be protective against smoking behaviors. In order to determine the role of ethnic pride and parental disapproval of smoking among adolescents, 870 white (n=202) and minority adolescents in Connecticut were surveyed. Analysis showed that perceived parental disapproval of smoking and ethnic pride was associated with the likelihood of smoking, ever trying a cigarette, and daily smoking. Results were different for minorities than for whites, as ethnic pride was not a factor for whites. This study could inform future interventions designed for minority and multi-ethnic youth. Click here to read the study abstract published in the American Journal on Addictions.

High cigarette taxes disproportionately burden low-income families
High cigarette taxes can be effective in reducing cigarette smoking rates, however, higher taxes have been found to be a burden on low-income smokers. Data from the New York Adult Tobacco Survey and the National Adult Tobacco Survey from 2010-2011 were used to measure how smoking prevalence, daily cigarette consumption, and portion of annual income spent on cigarettes vary by income. The results suggest that the smoking prevalence is lower in New York (16.1%) than nationally (22.2%), and smoking is associated with lower income in both New York and nationally. This study presents evidence that while higher cigarette taxes have reduced smoking rates, they have become more of a burden for low-income smokers, who may need better access to cessation programs. Click here to read more. Click here to read the study abstract published in PLoS One. Click here for a press release from the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, which notes that while New York’s state tax has reduced smoking, New York and other states must do more to help low-income smokers quit tobacco.

State tobacco control plans: Who falls outside the plans?
A new investigation finds that tobacco-related disparities are being addressed by states’ tobacco control plans (STCPs), but there could be improvements. A review of published STCPs was conducted that compared the tobacco control strategic plans of all fifty states and the District of Columbia as of March 2010. The data show that 36 STCPs addressed disparities, and 43 states carry out activities to address disparate populations such as racial and ethnic minorities, blue-collar workers, and pregnant women. While many states address disparities in their published STCPs, more work must be done in plan implementation and evaluation to address disparities. Click here to read the study abstract published in the American Journal of Health Promotion.

A transnational study of migration and smoking behavior in the Mexican-origin population
Researchers from the University of California, Davis recently published the results of the first transnational study of the relationship between Mexico-United States migration and smoking. This analysis incorporated data from epidemiologic surveys conducted in Mexico and the U.S., and measured contact with the U.S. as well as the outcomes of smoking initiation, persistence, and cigarette consumption. Those who had migrated to the U.S. had significantly lower odds of initiating smoking and being persistent smokers, compared to Mexicans who had a migrant in their family or had previous migration experience. Among daily smokers, cigarette consumption was higher in the U.S.-born than those living in Mexico. Read more here in a press release from the UC Davis Health System. Click here to view the press release in Spanish. To access the article in the American Journal of Public Health, click here.

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