Problem/Objective: Health disparities are strongly associated with disproportionate use of tobacco, as well as differences in the appropriateness and accessibility of prevention and treatment. When compared to Whites, African Americans have a harder time quitting and are more likely to smoke again once they quit. We address African Americans' lower cessation rates by exploring perceived obstacles to the use of nicotine replacement therapies (NRT). We also explore any uses of alternative therapies such as home remedies, prayer and spiritual healing, or relaxation techniques to quit smoking. This presentation is appropriate for anyone wishing to consider the use of culturally appropriate interventions that could assist in efforts to quit smoking.

Methods: In this descriptive, exploratory study we conduct 12 focus groups with African American smokers and ex-smokers in several California communities (n=120 participants). Groups are audiotaped and transcribed to facilitate qualitative data management and a systematic analysis.

Results: We are currently conducting focus groups and expect to complete 10 by August, 2007. Preliminary data will be available for NCTOH. The aim of our study is to understand, from the participants' point of view, obstacles to using NRT, when and under what circumstances NRT is or is not regarded as effective, and whether alternative therapies are regarded as effective for quitting smoking.

Conclusions: Given the disproportionate burden of tobacco-related diseases affecting African Americans, exploring potential obstacles to NRT use may expose specific barriers to tobacco cessation. Furthermore, exploring possible uses of alternative therapies may offer additional insight on other culturally appropriate interventions.