Tobacco-Related Disparities in Specific Populations

Research

Lakota elders' views on traditional versus commercial/addictive tobacco use; oral history depicting a fundamental distinction
A recent study sought to understand Lakota elders’ distinctions between traditional and commercial tobacco use. Tobacco use has been a part of the traditions of the Lakota Tribe; however, commercial use of tobacco has become more prevalent among American Indians/Alaska Natives (AI/ANs) than the general U.S. population. Smoking-related illnesses such as lung cancer are also prevalent among AI/ANs. Researchers conducted a qualitative study using a community-based participatory research approach, where they interviewed thirty Lakota elders. A clear distinction between traditional and commercial tobacco was identified. Positive messages (e.g. spirituality, respect, health and wellness) were attributed to traditional tobacco and negative messages (e.g. crime, loss of control and self-esteem, sickness, and death) were attributed to commercial or addictive tobacco. The data gathered from this study in the form of stories in the Lakota language and the messages given by the elders can be used in prevention and cessation programs. Click here to read the study abstract published in the Journal of Community Health.

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Reports

Adult smoking: Focusing on people with mental illness
According to a recent Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), more smoking prevention and cessation efforts are needed for those with mental illness, as the smoking prevalence for adults with some sort of mental illness is 70% higher than adults with no mental illness. The study was conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) along with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), and utilized data from SAMHSA’s 2009-2011 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). It is reported that 36% of adults with a mental illness smoke cigarettes, versus 21% of adults with no mental illness. About 45.7 million Americans have some type of mental illness. People with mental illnesses often experience challenges in quitting and could benefit from extra assistance. Click here to access this report published in the CDC’s Vital Signs. Click here to access the full report. Click here to access a video clip on this report, and here for the press release.

New anti-tobacco ads for African American market unveiled (CA)
The California Department of Public Health director Dr. Ron Chapman has announced the launch of a marketing campaign aimed at ethnic populations in California. The campaign educates residents on the harmful effects of tobacco use, and will be aired on the radio as well as in print ads in the African American market. The ads started in January, and continue to run. Hispanic and Black men in the state smoke at higher rates than whites, and the purpose of the campaign is to reduce this disparity. Click here to read more. Click here to view the campaign at TobaccoFreeCA.com.

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