Learning Objectives: Identify the lessons learned from the implementation of a youth smoking cessation project designed for LGBTQ youth in San Francisco.
Abstract: LGBTQ youth face tremendous challenges growing up physically and mentally healthy in a culture that is often unaccepting (Pediatrics, 1991). Research shows greater than 30 health risk behaviors positively associated with self-reported LGBT orientation (Pediatrics, 1998). The research adds that among these health behaviors, cigarette smoking was higher in the LGBTQ youth (59.3%) than in their heterosexual counterparts (35.2%). The research also shows that smoking rates in the LGBT community overall are nearly double that of the general population (American Journal of Public Health, 1994).
San Francisco has a sizeable LGBTQ youth community. Many LGBTQ youth programs are not specific to smoking cessation and the impact on this lack of services can represent a significant health problem for San Francisco.
Description: San Francisco LGBTQ youth smokers were recruited to receive a free voluntary smoking cessation program based on the ALA's Not-On-Tobacco program. Project goals: train LGBTQ Youth Specialists as youth smoking cessation facilitators; implement an LGBTQ youth-specific smoking cessation program to help youth quit or cut down; assist LGBTQ youth to develop their own tobacco prevention education/tobacco control advocacy messages. It is anticipated that youth completing the program will be trained in tobacco facts and smoking cessation to participate as LGBTQ youth cessation facilitators as well as design an awareness activity at 1-2 of the five LGBTQ youth events in San Francisco. The ALA/SFSM believes this project will build self efficacy, develop leadership, and empower LGBTQ youth to effect positive changes in their communities and society at large.
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