Research suggests that as much as 75% of African Americans who smoke prefer menthol tobacco products, but there is little information available about whey they prefer menthol and how this preference develops. The interacting effects of marketing, peer behavior and other factors are unknown. To address this knowledge gap, CDC conducted 12 focus groups of black males and females, subdivided into low, medium and high socioeconomic status. Presentation will describe CDC's key research questions, design, and findings. In addition, the study includes review of current literature and key informant interviews to identify risk and protective factors, as well as barriers. Also, presenters offer potential outreach campaigns to African Americans based on this qualitative research. Recommendations for measuring their effectiveness also will be provided.
Learning Objectives: At the end of this session, participants will be able to: * Describe current CDC research design, methods and findings on the attitudes, beliefs and behaviors of African American menthol smokers.
Keywords: African American, Tobacco Industry
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.