Recounts the history of tobacco and its use, emphasizing the difference between American Indians' sacred relationship with "sacred" tobacco and the hedonistic use of "secular" tobacco. Recommends reviving the distinction between the two, especially in substance abuse programs. Sidebars discuss the Traditional Native American…

Examines the relationships of smoking-related beliefs, attitudes, and smoking status, with a focus on experimental smoking. Survey results of 9,774 respondents suggest that attitude and belief variables can adequately predict smoking stages of adolescents as defined by the stage model of smoking acquisition. Argues that intervention with…

Qualitatively examined sociocultural factors associated with smoking attitudes and practices among low-income, African American young adults smokers and nonsmokers. Focus group data indicated that specific contextual and familial factors contributed to smoking initiation, maintenance, and cessation (e.g., strong parental discipline, limited…

Use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and cocaine among Hispanic youth were estimated using national data from the Monitoring the Future survey and state data from surveys in New Jersey, Massachusetts, New York, Texas, and California. Prevalence rates were lower in the national study than in state surveys and also differed among states, possibly…

Students (N=4,466) in 56 schools participated in 3-year study on effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral approach to substance abuse prevention. Students who received at least 60 percent of prevention program (N=3,684) were included in analyses of program effectiveness. Significant prevention effects were found for cigarette smoking, marijuana use,…

Used 2-year prospective study of 2,102 young adolescents to assess relationship between family structure (intact, one-parent, stepparent) and whether cigarettes, alcohol, marijuana, and sexual intercourse had ever been tried. Logistic regression results showed significantly higher levels of ever-usage for children of nonintact families. (Author/NB)

Reviews cancer and other health and behavioral risks posed to American Indian and Alaska Native people by smoked and smokeless tobacco use. Pays particular attention to psychosocial aspects of tobacco use, including influences of cultural, social, and gender-specific factors. Suggests prevention model based on bicultural competence theory and…

A survey of 23 White and 58 Hispanic adolescent mothers (up to 17 years old) indicated that over 50 percent used cigarettes, marijuana, or alcohol before 12-16 weeks of pregnancy, but most substance use ceased after 12-16 weeks of pregnancy. No significant differences existed between ethnic groups in substance use. (SLD)

Examines the conceptual and empirical foundations of individual drug use stage development and progression related to tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs. Research examining interdrug use progression among youths supports the idea of a generally invariant sequence, involving nonuse to legal drug use, marijuana, and finally other illegal drug use.…

Findings from national survey of approximately 1,925 U lesbians revealed that over 50% had considered suicide and 18% had attempted suicide; 37% had been physically abused; 32% had been raped/sexually attacked; and 19% had been in incestuous relationships. Almost one-third used tobacco daily, and about 30% drank alcohol more than once a week.…

Focusing dental efforts on hard-core and high-risk smokers can decrease smoking prevalence. Challenges to the dental profession include professional legitimacy, dental professional education, defining special populations, and overcoming barriers to access. Opportunities include strategic placement, strategic relations with those serving high-risk…

This study examined strategies to increase diffusion of a school-based tobacco prevention program (Smart Choices), comparing the impact on curriculum implementation of either video or workshop teacher training approaches. Fewer video trained teachers implemented the curriculum, but overall completeness and fidelity of implementation for those who…

Analyzed predictors of end-of-treatment (4 months) smoking cessation and subsequent relapse at 12 and 24 months among 3,923 participants enrolled in a 12-week cognitive-behavioral group smoking-cessation program. Men were more likely than women to quit smoking initially, but relapse rates were similar for both genders. Clinical implications are…

A self-administered survey examining multiple factors associated with engaging in sexual intercourse was completed by 1,026 high school students in a classroom setting. Findings suggest that effective interventions to address teenage pregnancy need to utilize a multifaceted approach to the prevention of high-risk behaviors. (JPS)

Examines the relationship of adolescents' perceived family environment to several aspects of their self-reported alcohol use, smoking behavior, and involvement with illegal drugs and solvents. A sample of 12- to 16-year olds (n=1,045) completed questionnaires. Males who perceived "authoritarian" or "neglecting" families…