Learning Objectives: Identify the current state and implications of tobacco use epidemiology among ethnic communities (African American, Lation and Native Americans).
Abstract: Although the state of tobacco use among ethnic communities has been paid more attention since late 90's after a Surgeon General report on this issue was published, a more in-depth and comprehensive measure of the issue is still absent due to the lack of more specific research. As a result, the predictors of tobacco use in these communities are not well understood. That eventually hampers the progression of tobacco control practice to diminish the disparities, which is indicated by some available information. For example, Native American and African American continue to have substantially higher smoking prevalence rates than other racial/ethnic groups. Tobacco use prevalence among Latino youth remains higher than most of other groups. Meanwhile, tobacco industry keeps targeting these groups through its promotional activities and image-improving campaign.
Many important questions still remain unanswered or partial answered. Why African American have the lowest youth smoking prevalence while the adult smoking prevalence is higher than Asian, Latino and Non-Hispanic White? What is the implication of the important role of tobacco in cultural and spiritual life among Native Americans? Is the acculturation a positive or a negative impact in terms of tobacco use among Latinos?
The presenters of this panel will provide information regarding the tobacco use among African Americans, American Indians and Latinos by summarizing available surveillance data. Implications and issues for surveillance of tobacco use in these communities will also be discussed.
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