The lack of information about Wisconsin American Indian youth behaviors in relation to tobacco use, knowledge/attitudes and exposure has made it difficult to measure the affect of local public health and prevention activities. The Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council (GLITC) in conjunction with tribal and public schools conducted a Youth Tobacco Survey (GLITC YTS) to gather information on American Indian youth knowledge, use, and exposure to tobacco. The core CDC Youth Tobacco Survey was used with additional questions about Tribal affiliation, knowledge and traditional/ceremonial use. A convenient sample was used based on location (nearness to a reservation) and/ or high American Indian student enrollment. A total of 962 6th through 8th grade students at 15 schools responded to the GLITC YTS. Analysis of the surveys shows disparities between the American Indian youth (GLITC YTS) and the respondents of the 2000 Wisconsin Youth Tobacco Survey (2000), as well as the 1999 National YTS (report currently in review by GLITC board of directors). The information gathered from the GLITC YTS has been used in local tribal smoking prevention efforts and statewide (through GLITC) Native American youth smoking prevention efforts.
Learning Objectives: N/A
Keywords: Adolescents, Tobacco
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council, Inc.
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: I am an employee of Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council, Inc.