Tobacco use remains a serious problem among Hispanic/Latino adults, with increasing use and acceptance of e-cigarettes and hookah among younger tobacco users living in the United States, according to a study presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2015.
Hookah, also known as a water pipe, consists of a bowl, a chamber partially filled with water, hose and mouthpiece. It is designed to burn specialty tobacco which is typically flavored.
To better understand Hispanics'/Latinos' knowledge, attitudes and behaviors regarding the use of tobacco products, as well as how these might differ across Hispanic/Latino ethnicities, researchers conducted 26 focus groups with smokers and nonsmokers. The focus groups included 180 Hispanic/Latino participants, 18 to 64 years of age, residing in varying U.S. locations where particular ethnic subgroups have settled: Chicago (Central and South Americans), New York City (Puerto Ricans and Dominicans), San Diego (Mexican/Mexican Americans) and Miami (Cubans). Participants were recruited based on their birthplace (mainland U.S. vs elsewhere) and use of the English language as an index of acculturation (gradual process whereby immigrants incorporate the beliefs and behaviors of the mainstream culture).
Researchers found that regardless of the specific ethnic background and geographic location:
- Hispanic/Latino participants reported substantial use of e-cigarettes and/or hookah.
- Spanish-speaking immigrants who were 36 to 64 years were least likely to use these alternative tobacco products, whereas younger Latino smokers who were 18-35 reported significantly greater use.
Easy access to these products, the appeal of flavored tobacco products' taste and smell, minimal restrictions on public use, and use while socializing were cited as reasons contributing to these products desirability.
###
Note: Actual presentation is 4:45 p.m. ET, Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015.
Additional Resources:
For more news from the AHA's Scientific Sessions 2015 follow us on Twitter @HeartNews # AHA15.
Statements and conclusions of study authors that are presented at American Heart Association scientific meetings are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect association policy or position. The association makes no representation or warranty as to their accuracy or reliability. The association receives funding primarily from individuals; foundations and corporations (including pharmaceutical, device manufacturers and other companies) also make donations and fund specific association programs and events. The association has strict policies to prevent these relationships from influencing the science content. Revenues from pharmaceutical and device corporations are available at http://www.heart.org/corporatefunding.
For Media Inquiries and AHA Spokesperson Perspective:
AHA News Media in Dallas: (214) 706-1173
AHA News Media Office, Nov. 7-11, 2015
at the Orange County Convention Center: (407) 685-5401
For Public Inquiries: (800) AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and strokeassociation.org
Life is why, science is how . . . we help people live longer, healthier lives.