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The overall goal of this research is to identify and understand the factors associated with smoking initiation among AAPI youth. The specific aims of this study are twofold: 1) to identify and explore, using qualitative methodology, the factors associated with youth (age 15-22) smoking onset among two different AAPI groups (Vietnamese and Guamanians); and 2) to develop and pre-test a self-administered survey instrument in order to identify preliminary tobacco use prevalence and patterns, as well as the feasibility and acceptability of the survey for youth in these two communities. The final months of this study will be devoted to survey data analyses and intervention developmentDuring year 1, a program coordinator was hired and the first Scientific and Community Advisory Committee Meeting was held to gather information about current research and provide direction on future research needs. Additionally, a Community Partners Planning Meeting was held with community partners to strategize about focus group and survey activities, and a facilitator training session was conducted to train community members in leading the focus group discussions. In the focus group phase, a total of 10 focus groups were conducted in the Cambodian, Chamorro, and Vietnamese communities involving a total of 57 youth (26 girls and 31 boys) age 13-22 years old. For Cambodians, two groups were held: one with girls of mixed smoking status (n=6), one with boys of mixed smoking status (n=6). For Chamorros, a total of five groups were held: one with nonsmoking girls (n=6), one with nonsmoking boys (n=5), one with both nonsmoking girls and boys (n=2), and two with nonsmoking and smoking girls and boys (n=13). They also conducted a one-to-one interview with a smoking girl. Finally, for Vietnamese, three groups were held: one with nonsmoking girls (n=7), one with nonsmoking boys (n=5), and one with smoking boys (N=6). Following completion of the focus groups, a self-administered survey questionnaire was developed that assessed the following: 1) ethnic identity; 2) demographics; 3) smoking status, history and intention; 4) smoking knowledge and attitudes towards smokers; 5) exposure to marketing; 6) stress; 7) body image and dieting; and 8) participation in leadership activities. The survey was distributed to Chamorro and Vietnamese youth via convenience methodology (e.g., at social events, shopping malls, social clubs, etc.). A total of 200 youth completed the survey, 92 Vietnamese and 108 Chamorro. A final summary report of the findings from the focus groups and surveys was developed and disseminated to all collaborating partners. Dissemination included a news conference that was held on May 18, 2004 to release the findings through ethnic and mainstream media. Additionally, an abstract has been accepted at the upcoming 2004 APHA Annual Conference in Washington, DC. |
