Learning Objectives: Describe current research on tobacco cessation efforts effective with Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and list next steps needed to forward the field
Abstract: Many health professionals are under the mistaken impression that AAPIs have low rates of tobacco use prevalence. However, aggregated data hides the fact that certain ethnic subgroups of AAPIs have smoking prevalence rates among the highest in the U.S. Tobacco use is highly ingrained in many AAPI communities where it is considered socially and culturally acceptable. The tobacco industry directly targets AAPIs in the U.S. and abroad. Research by the American Legacy Foundation recently revealed that Asian Americans have the greatest increase in smoking rates from among any ethnic group from 7th to 12th grade.
Healthy People 2010 Objectives shows that only 50% of AAPI adults have tried to quit smoking, a percentage well below the targeted 75%. However, despite the need for tobacco cessation programs, there has been a paucity of research to date on the effectiveness of tobacco cessation programs with AAPIs. Few AAPI models have been documented and tested for replication.
Challenges to implementing cessation programs with AAPIs include diversity within the group, linguistic, cultural, and financial barriers. Addressing cultural and linguistic barriers, although important, is not enough to ensure participation and long-term success. Cessation programs for AAPIs need to be bolstered by community inclusivity, adequate infrastructure, advocacy, and policy.
This session will summarize existing literature on tobacco cessation efforts with AAPIs and describe challenges to implementing effective cessation programs. Examples of model programs will be presented as case studies. Recommendations for next steps generated by a national workgroup of researchers, educators, and clinicians will be presented.
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