Understanding American Indian tribal college student knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors surrounding alternative tobacco products

OBJECTIVES

To examine knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors about alternative tobacco products among American Indian tribal college students.

PARTICIPANTS

One hundred and five tribal college students.

METHODS

Focus groups, one interview, and demographic surveys.

RESULTS

Tobacco use varied across the sample with 35.2% of the participants being users of ENDS products and 29.5% were cigarette smokers. Overall, participants viewed electronic nicotine delivery systems and chewing tobacco as primary examples of alternative tobacco products and described a generational divide between alternative and conventional tobacco product use. Alternative tobacco products were not considered suitable for use in traditional contexts.

CONCLUSIONS

Previously successful cessation programs in this population have relied on cultural tailoring related to traditional tobacco use in American Indian communities. Our findings suggest that this strategy may be less effective for addressing alternative tobacco use. Reliance on the importance of family relationships may prove more impactful in future programming.

Using Bayesian hierarchical models for controlled post hoc subgroup analysis of clinical trials: application to smoking cessation treatment in American Indians and Alaska Natives

Clinical trials powered to detect subgroup effects provide the most reliable data on heterogeneity of treatment effect among different subpopulations. However, pre-specified subgroup analysis is not always practical and post hoc analysis results should be examined cautiously. Bayesian hierarchical modelling provides grounds for defining a controlled post hoc analysis plan that is developed after seeing outcome data for the population but before unblinding the outcome by subgroup. Using simulation based on the results from a tobacco cessation clinical trial conducted among the general population, we defined an analysis plan to assess treatment effect among American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/AN) enrolled in the study. Patients were randomized into two arms using Bayesian adaptive design. For the opt-in arm, clinicians offered a cessation treatment plan after verifying that a patient was ready to quit. For the opt-out arm, clinicians provided all participants with free cessation medications and referred them to a Quitline. The study was powered to test a hypothesis of significantly higher quit rates for the opt-out arm at one-month post randomization. Overall, one-month abstinence rates were 15.9% and 21.5% (opt-in and opt-out arm, respectively). For AI/AN, one-month abstinence rates were 10.2% and 22.0% (opt-in and opt-out arm, respectively). The posterior probability that the abstinence rate in the treatment arm is higher is 0.96, indicating that AI/AN demonstrate response to treatment at almost the same probability as the whole population.

Pilot Testing All Nations Snuff Out Smokeless (ANSOS): A Culturally Tailored Smokeless Tobacco Cessation Program for American Indians

American Indians have the highest rates of smokeless tobacco (SLT) use of any racial/ethnic group in the United States, yet no proven effective cessation programs exist for them. Because tobacco is a sacred plant to many American Indians, cessation programs must not portray it in a completely negative manner. Based on our successful All Nations Breath of Life smoking cessation program, we developed and pilot-tested the All Nations Snuff Out Smokeless (ANSOS) program. Of 48 participants who began the program, 33 completed to six months (68.8% retention rate). Among participants who completed the program, 11 (34%) self-reported abstinence. When those lost to follow-up are considered current users, the cessation rate is 22.9%. An additional 14 individuals reported decreasing use (29.2% of all participants), with an average of 3.4 days per week decrease. All Nations Snuff Out Smokeless shows promise as a culturally appropriate SLT cessation program and is ready for efficacy testing.

Baseline characteristics of American Indian smokeless tobacco users participating in two pilot cessation studies

American Indians have higher rates of smokeless tobacco (SLT) use than other racial/ethnic groups in the US, yet no efficacious cessation program exists for them. Because tobacco is a sacred plant to many American Indians, it is imperative that a program respect the scared nature of tobacco while encouraging quitting recreational use. All Nations Snuff Out Smokeless (ANSOS) was designed to help American Indian SLT users quit recreational tobacco use while still using it for traditional purposes. We pilot tested the ANSOS 6-month group-based counseling program (N = 48) and a shortened version consisting of a one-time education session (N = 80). Here, we discuss the tobacco characteristics of participants at baseline in both studies. Participants across studies were more likely to be male (74.2%) and have at least a college education (65%). Participants in the one-time education sessions were younger (age 35 vs age 39) and used SLT fewer days per week (4.9 vs 5.7). Two-thirds of those in the full program reported that they often substitute SLT in locations where smoking is not allowed compared to 26%. Participants in the education sessions were more likely to report daily use of traditional tobacco (20% versus 0%). Results suggest that dual use of SLT and cigarettes needs to be addressed, as does the use of SLT to circumvent public smoking rules. The role of traditional tobacco and its relationship to lower SLT use also warrants further investigation.

One-Time Education Sessions to Help American Indian Smokeless Tobacco Users Quit

American Indian (AI) smokeless tobacco use rates are the highest of all racial/ethnic groups within the United States. Despite this, no effective cessation program currently exists that acknowledges the cultural significance of tobacco among many American Indian tribal nations. Participants were smokeless tobacco users, over 18 years of age, and were recruited through community partners. We modified the All Nations Snuff Out Smokeless Tobacco group-based program to be delivered as a one-time education session intervention. This was delivered to 80 participants and follow-up data was collected by self-report at 6-months. The mean age of participants was 35 and most were male (70%). A majority (69%) grew up on a AI reservation; the mean age of first smokeless tobacco use was 16 years of age. Of program completers reached for 6-month post baseline, 46% reported 0 days of SLT use; 13.5% of participants reduced; while 36% reported continued daily use. In intention to treat analysis those lost to follow-up are considered current users, the quit rate was 12.5% and among those who were still using, 4.0% reduced their use. In this study, a one-time education session intervention was effective for those who prefer an individual based approach to quitting SLT use. Follow up strategies to increase participant retention at 6-months should be explored.

Use of a theoretical framework to examine declines in clinical trial enrollment

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Background: Clinical trial enrollment at a group of community oncology sites dropped significantly surrounding acquisition by an academic medical center. While previous research used empirical data to identify enrollment barriers, this study used a theoretical framework to investigate research site personnel behavior associated with enrollment, and to further explore clinical trial enrollment barriers. Methods: Data from focus groups and interviews were analyzed using the integrated TDF and COM-B theoretical framework [1] . [1] Theoretical Domains Framework with Capability, Opportunity, Motivation Behavior Wheel. Results: Fifty-six community personnel [2] participated in focus groups and interviews about enrollment experiences before and after the acquisition. Participants described how changes in the workplace and resources affected their Opportunity to enroll: "It's kind of hard to put somebody on a study when you don't have one available." -cs "You can't grow a research department by cutting staff. What message does it send to the organization as far as the importance of research? …it makes you wonder whether the organization truly backs the research effort." -m Physician participants specifically shared that the lack of time and staff devoted to research hampered enrollment efforts, consequently affecting their Motivation: “Current road block is that doc doesn't have time to go through the patient records, so if [the study coordinator] could determine eligibility before the patient visit, that would be helpful.” -p Participants expressed frustration in not knowing the processes for opening trials, therefore their Capability was affected. “I think [in the past], we knew more about what was out there, where I don't see as much of that here now. I don't know if it's because we don't have a research nurse or we are not getting a list [of trials] anymore or what is going on." -cs [2] Quotes from personnel cs = clinic staff, m = manager, p = provider. Conclusions: Participants perceived many barriers to clinical trial enrollment after the acquisition. To optimally continue providing services as expected, support systems need to be maintained. This study provided evidence of using the TDF for exploring enrollment barriers.

American Indian Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs About Smokeless Tobacco: A Comparison of Two Focus Group Studies

Though smokeless tobacco (SLT) use has decreased in many communities, concern for American Indian (AI) SLT use remains, as this population continues to be disproportionally affected by SLT-related diseases. Tobacco has cultural significance to many AI tribes, therefore tobacco cessation messages portraying tobacco as entirely negative may be ineffective. As a part of our formative research for an SLT cessation intervention, we sought to gain a better understanding of the knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about SLT among AI community members. We describe two independent focus group studies conducted in Montana (ten focus groups, 54 participants) and Kansas (six focus groups, 27 participants). Predominant themes emerged from three major topic areas (SLT use, program development, and recreational SLT use) during the discussions from both studies. The formative approach and data from these studies will allow us to more appropriately address SLT-related health disparities across multiple AI communities.

It's not just about recruitment: An exploratory look at tobacco education sessions to increase participation into smoking cessation programs among American Indians

American Indians (AI) have the highest smoking rates and lowest quit rates of any racial/ethnic group in the U.S. Researchers and community members from the American Indian Health Research and Education Alliance (AIHREA) created and evaluated a culturally-tailored smoking cessation program, All Nations Breath of Life (ANBL) as a recruitment tool for smoking cessation programs among AI. To increase enrollment in ANBL, AI smokers were approached at cultural events and asked to attend a 30-minute educational session (in-person, n= 179; tele-video, n=97). Tele-video (30%) and in-person (9%) session participants were recruited into ANBL. Pre- and post-tests showed participants in both sessions demonstrated increased motivation and confidence to quit smoking but significant differences were present in both sessions (p < 0.0001). Results indicate that theoretically guided and culturally tailored education sessions are viable approaches to educate and recruit underserved populations into programs that promote smoking cessation.

Feasibility of Implementing the All Nations Breath of Life Culturally Tailored Smoking Cessation Program for American Indians in Multi-Tribal Urban Communities

Introduction

Prevalence of cigarette smoking is highest among American Indians, yet few culturally appropriate smoking cessation programs have yet been developed and tested for multi-tribal American Indian adult populations. This study examined implementation of the All Nations Breath of Life culturally tailored smoking cessation program in multi-tribal urban and suburban American Indian communities in seven locations across five states (N = 312).

Methods

This single-arm study used community-based participatory research to conduct a 12-week intervention whose primary purpose was to curb commercial tobacco use among American Indians. Participants were followed through month 6 in person and month 12 via telephone. The primary outcome was continuous abstinence from recreational cigarette smoking at 6 months post-baseline, verified through voluntary provision of salivary cotinine levels.

Results

At program completion (12 weeks post-baseline), 53.3% of program completers remained abstinent; labeling those lost to follow-up as smokers resulted in a 41.4% quit rate. At 6 months post-baseline (primary endpoint), 31.1% of retained participants quit smoking (p < .0001 compared to the highest quit rates among multi-tribal populations reported in the literature, 7%); final quit rate was 22.1% labeling those lost to follow-up as smokers (p = .002). Retention rate at endpoint was 71.2%. 12-month follow-up was attempted with all participants and had a retention rate of 49.0%. Of those participants reached, 34.0% were smoke-free.

Conclusions

All Nations Breath of Life shows promise as a smoking cessation program for multi-tribal urban American Indian communities. It can be successfully implemented in a variety of urban settings.

Implications

This is the first large feasibility study of a culturally tailored smoking cessation program for American Indians with good cessation and retention rates in a multi-tribal urban American Indian population. It shows that All Nations Breath of Life can be implemented in multiple urban settings across five states. To our knowledge, this is the first program of its kind to be implemented across multiple heterogeneous urban locations and to include salivary cotinine testing for verification of self-report data across these locations.

Recruitment and Baseline Characteristics of American Indian Tribal College Students Participating in a Tribal College Tobacco and Behavioral Survey

INTRODUCTION

American Indians (AIs) have the highest cigarette smoking rates of any racial/ethnic group in the United States. Although the overall smoking prevalence in the United States for nonminority populations has decreased over the past several decades, the same pattern is not observed among AIs. The purpose of this observational study was to collect cigarette smoking and related information from American Indian tribal college students to inform tailored interventions.

METHODS

We conducted a repeated cross-sectional survey of American Indian tribal college students, Tribal College Tobacco and Behavior Survey (TCTABS), with a focus on recruiting all incoming freshman at three participating tribal colleges in the Midwest and Northern Plains regions. A total of 1256 students participated in the baseline surveys between April 2011 and October 2014.

RESULTS

The overall smoking prevalence of this sample was 34.7%, with differences by region (Northern Plains-44.0% and Midwest-28%). The majority, 87.5% of current smokers reported smoking 10 or less cigarettes per day, 41% reported smoking menthol cigarettes, 52% smoked Marlboro brand, and the mean age of their first cigarette was 14 years. The majority, 62% had made at least one quit attempt in the past year. The overwhelming majority of respondents, regardless of their smoking status, thought that the current smoking prevalence on campus was greater than 41% and approximately one-third believed that it was as high as 61%.

CONCLUSIONS

Very few studies of smoking have been conducted in this population and results from our study confirm the need for effective interventions.

IMPLICATIONS

AIs have the highest cigarette smoking rates compared to other racial/ethnic groups in the United States. Furthermore, limited studies have examined the epidemiology of cigarette smoking among tribal college students. This study addresses health disparities related to smoking among college students by examining the demographic, cultural, and environmental characteristics of smoking and quitting. Results from this study could lead to the development of a culturally-tailored smoking cessation and prevention program for American Indian tribal college students.

Decisional stage distribution for colorectal cancer screening among diverse, low-income study participants

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening uptake among minorities and those with lower incomes is suboptimal. Behavioral interventions specifically tailored to these populations can increase screening rates and save lives. The Precaution Adoption Process Model (PAPM) allows assignment of a decisional stage for adoption of a behavior such as CRC screening. Here, we characterize the PAPM decisional stage distribution among 470 low income, racially and ethnically diverse study participants at intake into a behavioral intervention study designed to increase CRC screening uptake. We staged participants for stool blood test (SBT) and colonoscopy separately and used the highest stage for the two tests as the 'overall' stage for CRC screening. For SBT, sex, language (English versus Spanish) and doctor recommendation were significantly related to PAPM stage for CRC screening. For colonoscopy, language, education level, doctor recommendation and self-efficacy were related to stage. For overall CRC screening stage, all the variables associated with either SBT or colonoscopy, with the exception of language were significant. This study suggests attending to these key variables in designing interventions to promote CRC screening, particularly with respect to medically underserved populations.

Geographic variation in colorectal cancer incidence and mortality, age of onset, and stage at diagnosis among American Indian and Alaska Native people, 1990-2009

OBJECTIVES

We characterized estimates of colorectal cancer (CRC) in American Indians/Alaska Natives (AI/ANs) compared with Whites using a linkage methodology to improve AI/AN classification in incidence and mortality data.

METHODS

We linked incidence and mortality data to Indian Health Service enrollment records. Our analyses were restricted to Contract Health Services Delivery Area counties. We analyzed death and incidence rates of CRC for AI/AN persons and Whites by 6 regions from 1999 to 2009. Trends were described using linear modeling.

RESULTS

The AI/AN colorectal cancer incidence was 21% higher and mortality 39% higher than in Whites. Although incidence and mortality significantly declined among Whites, AI/AN incidence did not change significantly, and mortality declined only in the Northern Plains. AI/AN persons had a higher incidence of CRC than Whites in all ages and were more often diagnosed with late stage CRC than Whites.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with Whites, AI/AN individuals in many regions had a higher burden of CRC and stable or increasing CRC mortality. An understanding of the factors driving these regional disparities could offer critical insights for prevention and control programs.

Assessment of mammography experiences and satisfaction among American Indian/Alaska Native women

BACKGROUND

American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) women have lower breast cancer (BCA) screening and 5-year survival rates than non-Hispanic Whites. Understanding reasons for low screening rates is important to combatting later stage diagnoses. The purpose of this study was to assess mammography experiences and satisfaction among AI/AN women.

METHODS

Nine focus groups were held with rural (N = 15) and urban (N = 38) AI/AN women 40 years and older in Kansas and Kansas City, Missouri, living both near and far from Indian Health Service (IHS) and tribal facilities, to examine experiences and satisfaction with mammography. Transcripts were coded and themes identified using a community-based participatory research approach.

FINDINGS

Themes were classified under knowledge, communication, and awareness of BCA; barriers to mammography; mammogram facility size; impressions of mammogram technologist; motivations for getting a mammogram; and how to improve the mammogram experience. Participants had knowledge of prevention, but described cultural reasons for not discussing it and described better experiences in smaller facilities. Participants indicated having a mammogram technologist who was friendly, knowledgeable, respectful, competent, and explained the test was a determining factor in satisfaction. Other factors included family history, physician recommendation, and financial incentives. Barriers included transportation, cost, perceptions of prejudice, and time constraints. Participants on reservations or near IHS facilities preferred IHS over mainstream providers. Suggestions for improvement included caring technologists, better machines with less discomfort, and education.

CONCLUSIONS

Interventions to enhance the professionalism, empathy, and cultural awareness of mammogram technologists; reduce barriers; and provide positive expectations and incentives could improve satisfaction and compliance with screening mammography.

Teaching Confirmatory Factor Analysis to Non-Statisticians: A Case Study for Estimating Composite Reliability of Psychometric Instruments

Texts and software that we are currently using for teaching multivariate analysis to non-statisticians lack in the delivery of confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The purpose of this paper is to provide educators with a complement to these resources that includes CFA and its computation. We focus on how to use CFA to estimate a "composite reliability" of a psychometric instrument. This paper provides guidance for introducing, via a case-study, the non-statistician to CFA. As a complement to our instruction about the more traditional SPSS, we successfully piloted the software R for estimating CFA on nine non-statisticians. This approach can be used with healthcare graduate students taking a multivariate course, as well as modified for community stakeholders of our Center for American Indian Community Health (e.g. community advisory boards, summer interns, & research team members). The placement of CFA at the end of the class is strategic and gives us an opportunity to do some innovative teaching: (1) build ideas for understanding the case study using previous course work (such as ANOVA); (2) incorporate multi-dimensional scaling (that students already learned) into the selection of a factor structure (new concept); (3) use interactive data from the students (active learning); (4) review matrix algebra and its importance to psychometric evaluation; (5) show students how to do the calculation on their own; and (6) give students access to an actual recent research project.

Characteristics of American Indian light smokers

INTRODUCTION

American Indians (AI) have the highest smoking rates of any racial/ethnic group in the U.S. and have more difficulty quitting smoking. Little is known about the smoking characteristics of AI smokers. The present study compared the demographic and smoking characteristics of light (≤10 cigarettes per day; N=206) and moderate/heavy (11+ cigarettes per day; N=86) AI smokers participating in a cross-sectional survey about smoking and health.

METHODS

Multiple methods were used to recruit participants in attendance at powwows, health and career fairs, and conferences. A total of 998 AI (76% cooperation rate) completed a survey assessing general health, sociodemographics, traditional and commercial tobacco use, knowledge and attitudes related to cancer, source of health information and care and other health-related behaviors.

RESULTS

AI light smokers were younger and less likely to be married or living with a partner compared to moderate/heavy smokers. AI light smokers were less dependent on smoking and more likely to have home smoking restrictions. There were no differences with respect to number of quit attempts in the past year or the average length of their most recent quit attempt by light vs. moderate/heavy smoking. In addition, a similar proportion of light and heavy smokers reported using tobacco for traditional purposes such as ceremonial, spiritual and prayer.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings highlight important differences between AI light and heavier smokers. Differences related to smoking characteristics such as level of dependence and home smoking restrictions have important implications for the treatment of AI smokers.

Improving health promotion to American Indians in the midwest United States: preferred sources of health information and its use for the medical encounter

American Indians and Alaska Natives suffer significant health disparities for many infectious and chronic diseases as compared to the general population. Providing accurate and culturally tailored health information to underserved groups has been shown to influence health behaviors and health outcomes. Little prior research has explored American Indians health information use and preferences. National representative sample surveys such as the Health Information National Trends Survey provide some data on minority groups but are underpowered to provide useful information on American Indians. The present study analyzes data from a survey of over 900 American Indians from the Midwest United States and explores their sources of health information, their preferences for information presentation, and their use of health information prior to and during medical encounters. We conclude that campaigns targeting Natives should be narrowly focused and be community driven or employing community resources. American Indians use a diversity of media sources to obtain health information, with the Internet being underutilized compared to the general population. Partnership with Indian Health Service providers and pharmacists, as well as traditional healers, in the development and dissemination of new health information for Natives may provide the "expert" tone needed to promote health improvements in American Indians.

Use of online health information resources by American Indians and Alaska Natives

According to the Office of Minority Health, an estimated 4.9 million people living in the United States consider themselves American Indian or Alaska Native, either alone or in combination with one or more races/ethnicities. American Indians or Alaska Natives comprise a racial/ethnic group experiencing serious health disparities, with little if any improvement in health outcomes over the past several decades. This study was designed to explore use of the Internet as a health information source among American Indians in the Central Plains region of the United States. The authors recruited 998 Natives in the region from May 2008 to December 2009 at powwows, health fairs, focus groups, career fairs and conferences, and other social and cultural events, and asked them to complete a self-administered survey. Although compared with data from the general population, American Indians or Alaska Natives in this sample may seem to be more frequent Internet users, their use of modern wireless devices is limited, and their use of the Internet to access health information is lower in comparison with the adult U.S. population. Natives living in the Central Plains region face generational differences in general and health-related use of the Internet. Inadequate availability of culturally appropriate health information websites may drive American Indians or Alaska Natives toward search engines and general information websites.

Physical activity and fruit and vegetable intake among American Indians

The American Indian population has among the highest rates of obesity in the United States. Thus, it is critical to understand factors related to this epidemic (e.g., physical activity, nutrition) among this ethnic minority population. The current study examined factors related to engaging in at least 4 days of physical activity (PA) per week and factors related to consuming at least 5 fruits and vegetables (FV) per day among a sample of American Indians in the Midwest. We used multiple methods to recruit participants for this study, including recruitment at pow wows, focus groups, health fairs, new student orientation for American Indian students, and other venues. A total of 998 American Indians (76% participation rate) completed a survey assessing sociodemographics, physical activity level, fruit and vegetable intake, and perceptions regarding the recommendations for physical activity and fruit and vegetable intake. Factors associated with exercising ≥4 days in the past week (44.77% of the sample) include being younger (P = .002), being male (P < .001), having at least some college education (P = .048), eating ≥5 FV per day, and higher perceived number of days of PA recommended (P < .001). Factors associated with eating ≥5 servings of FV per day (37.01% of the sample) included exercising ≥4 days in the past week (P < .001) and higher perceived number of servings of FV recommended (P < .001). These findings highlight the importance of education in enhancing engagement in positive weight control behaviors and the importance of addressing both physical activity and nutrition among the American Indian population.

Breast cancer screening beliefs and behaviors among American Indian women in Kansas and Missouri: a qualitative inquiry

American Indian women have rising incidence and disproportionate mortality rates due to breast cancer. Using a community-based participatory research approach, we conducted ten focus groups with American Indian women in Kansas and Missouri to understand their barriers to mammography and identify ways to intervene to improve screening rates. Focus groups were stratified by screening status, including women who were up to date with current screening mammography recommendations (mammogram within the last 2 years, N = 7 groups, 66 participants) and women who were not (N = 3 groups, 18 participants). While many similarities were identified across strata, some differences emerged, particularly descriptions of prior negative experiences with the health care system among women who were not up to date with screening recommendations. Primary areas identified by participants for intervention included culturally appropriate educational materials and interventions directed specifically at improving American Indian women's trust in Western medicine and alleviating feelings of discrimination.

Smoke-Free Policies in the Workplace and in the Home among American Indians

OBJECTIVES

American Indians are more likely to smoke, less likely to have smoke-free homes, and potentially less likely to have worksite smoke-free policies. We examined correlates of smoke-free policies at home and work among a community-based sample of American Indians in the Midwest.

METHODS

We examined correlates of smoke-free policies at home and work in a sample of American Indians in the Midwest using a community-based participatory research approach.

RESULTS

66.7% were nonsmokers, 15.6% smoked on some days, and 17.6% smoked every day. The majority (72.4%) had complete smoke-free home policies, 13.1% had partial restrictions, and 14.5% had no rules. Moreover, 62.7% had complete smoke-free worksite policies, 27.9% had partial policies, and 9.4% had no worksite smoke-free policies. Factors associated with having a complete smoke-free home policy included being a college graduate (p=.005) and a nonsmoker versus a nondaily (p=.006) or a daily smoker (p<.001). Correlates of having a complete smoke-free worksite policy included being female (p=.005) and a nonsmoker versus a nondaily (p=.03) or a daily smoker (p<.001). Having complete worksite policies was associated with having smoke-free homes (p<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Having complete worksite policies was related to having smoke-free home policies; both were associated with being a nonsmoker.

American Indian Community Leader and Provider Views of Needs and Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening

Colorectal cancer is a great concern for the American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) community, as incidence and mortality rates remain high and screening rates stay low. We conducted interviews with community leaders (n=13) and with providers from the Indian Health Service (IHS), tribal clinics, and urban safety-net clinics (n=17) in Northeast Kansas and the Kansas City Metro Area to determine their understanding of needs and barriers to colorectal cancer screening among American Indians. Using a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach for this pilot study, community leaders and providers identified similar needs, including: culturally-appropriate education about colorectal cancer and screenings, the potential use of Native elders as patient navigators, and an emphasis on preventive care, particularly through the IHS. Barriers included culturally specific issues such as historic mistrust and gender roles. Other barriers are similar to members of other ethnic groups, such as cost, transportation, fear, and repulsion toward the screening process.

A computerized intervention to promote colorectal cancer screening for underserved populations: theoretical background and algorithm development

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this exploratory study was to assess factors deemed by patients as "important" as they planned and considered undergoing colorectal cancer (CRC) screening, and to use this data to design a computer-delivered intervention to promote screening.

METHODS

Fifty participants 50 years or older, not up-to-date with current recommended CRC screening guidelines, were recruited from a primary care clinic. A semi-structured interview focused on aspects of preparing for colorectal cancer screening was administered; after transcription, researchers used triangulation and consensus to identify relevant themes and concepts.

RESULTS

Four main themes were identified that dealt with issues important for both FOBT and colonoscopy planning: personal concerns, reminders, communication with healthcare providers and obtaining test results. FOBT specific themes included: sample collection and return. For colonoscopy screening, themes included: scheduling, intervention questions, colonoscopy preparation, and transportation. These can be classified as barrier, process and accessory themes. The developed computer-administered implementation intentions algorithm addressed all the identified concerns in a planned and sequential manner, in order to facilitate planning for CRC screening.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest that appropriate reminders, explanations of procedures, and patient understanding of temporary life disruptions, help patients develop and accept a detailed screening plan.

Using focus groups in community-based participatory research: challenges and resolutions

A community-based participatory approach requires that community members be involved in all phases of the research process. We describe three focus group studies with American Indians in Kansas and Missouri, using a newly developed method of conducting and analyzing focus groups with community input (72 focus groups, 519 participants). We conducted two needs assessment studies focused on barriers to breast and colorectal cancer screening and one study focused on Internet use for gathering health information. Community members and researchers collaborated to develop guides for the focus group moderators. Community organizations and our community advisory board conducted recruitment, and we trained and employed community members as moderators, assistant moderators, and analysts. Our community partners also helped with dissemination of research findings to their constituents. The methodologic approach and data from these three studies will allow us to more appropriately address health disparities in the American Indian community, with full community support for our research.

All Nations Breath of Life: using community-based participatory research to address health disparities in cigarette smoking among American Indians

Using a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach, we developed the All Nations Breath of Life smoking cessation program and pilot-tested it in urban and reservation communities. The program combines weekly in-person group support sessions with individual telephone calls using motivational interviewing. All sessions include discussion of sacred tobacco and information about quitting and health. We have assessed the scientific validity, cultural-appropriateness, and readability of our program materials and found them to be adequate; participant satisfaction is high. The program shows promise for improving quit rates among American Indians, who have the highest smoking rates and lowest quit rates of any ethnic group. Our preliminary self-report data show quit rates of 65% at program completion and 25% at six months post-baseline.

Assessing the scientific accuracy, readability, and cultural appropriateness of a culturally targeted smoking cessation program for American Indians

This study assesses educational materials developed for the All Nations Breath of Life smoking cessation program (targeted for American Indians and Alaska Natives) for scientific accuracy, readability and other literacy factors, and cultural appropriateness. The authors used a scientific review panel of experts in smoking cessation representing epidemiology, medicine, and psychology; the suitability assessment of materials (SAM) and the simplified measure of gobbledygook (SMOG) reading grade level formulas; and review by Native program facilitators and pilot participants. Materials were scientifically accurate and culturally appropriate. The mean SAM score was 80% (superior rating), and the average reading grade level was 7.1 using the Fry formula (part of the SAM) and 8.4 using the SMOG formula (difference was not statistically significant). Based on this project, the SAM can be used in combination with scientific review and input from community members during formative research to assess and modify educational materials for a targeted population.

College Men's Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs About Testicular Cancer

There is a paucity of information about what college-age men know about testicular cancer, making targeted educational programs difficult. The most common age group affected by testicular cancer is 15- to 40-yearolds. Therefore, educating young men, including the college population, becomes paramount. Six focus groups were conducted with men between the ages of 18 and 23 years ( N = 31) at a large public university in the Northeast. Major topics included risk factors for testicular cancer, screening and diagnosis, treatments, psychological effects, and beliefs about prevention and cure. Focus groups revealed college students have poor knowledge and even less understanding of testicular cancer. Students were interested in learning about testicular cancer and other health topics affecting college men, such as healthy diet and exercise and common infectious diseases on college campuses. Simple means to educate college men included courses or assignments that focused on health issues, brief factual information, health fairs, peer educators, and celebrity guest speakers.

The school food environment and adolescent obesity: qualitative insights from high school principals and food service personnel

Objectives

To examine high school personnel's perceptions of the school environment, its impact on obesity, and the potential impact of legislation regulating schools' food/beverage offerings.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the principal (n = 8) and dietitian/food service manager (n = 7) at 8 schools (4 rural, 4 suburban) participating in a larger study examining the relationship between the school environment and adolescent health behavior patterns.

Results

Principal themes included: 1) Obesity is a problem in general, but not at their school, 2) Schools have been unfairly targeted above more salient factors (e.g., community and home environment), 3) Attempts at change should start before high school, 4) Student health is one priority area among multiple competing demands; academic achievement is the top priority, 5) Legislation should be informed by educators and better incorporate the school's perspective. Food service themes included: 1) Obesity is not a problem at their school; school food service is not the cause, 2) Food offerings are based largely on the importance of preparing students for the real world by providing choice and the need to maintain high participation rates; both healthy and unhealthy options are available, 3) A la carte keeps lunch participation high and prices low but should be used as a supplement, not a replacement, to the main meal, 4) Vending provides school's additional revenue; vending is not part of food service and is appropriate if it does not interfere with the lunch program.

Conclusion

Discrepancies exist between government/public health officials and school personnel that may inhibit collaborative efforts to address obesity through modifications to the school environment. Future policy initiatives may be enhanced by seeking the input of school personnel, providing recommendations firmly grounded in evidence-based practice, framing initiatives in terms of their potential impact on the issues of most concern to schools (e.g., academic achievement, finances/revenue), and minimizing barriers by providing schools adequate resources to carry out and evaluate the effectiveness of their efforts.

"Tobacco has a purpose, not just a past": Feasibility of developing a culturally appropriate smoking cessation program for a pan-tribal native population

Tobacco has long held spiritual significance to Native people of North America but, because of recreational use, it has become a health risk relatively recently. More Native people smoke than any other ethnic group (41 percent vs. 24 percent in whites and blacks), and death rates caused by tobacco-related diseases are disproportionately high. However, no tested, culturally tailored smoking cessation programs exist for this group. We used a critical-interpretive framework to understand the meaning of tobacco and the feasibility of smoking cessation interventions in a pan-tribal population. In June 2004, the University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC) and the Oklahoma Area Indian Health Service (IHS) collaborated on six focus groups with (IHS) patients. The patients served represent over 200 different nations. Our participants provided us with modifications to a currently untested program designed by the Muscogee Nation of Oklahoma's Tobacco Prevention Program to enhance cultural appropriateness, including (1) an emphasis on visual presentation and a "Native" look to program educational materials; (2) comprehensive information about tobacco, quitting, and coping among Native people; (3) an acknowledgment and incorporation of traditional tobacco use and its diversity; and (4) the use of talking circles and counseling with Native facilitators.

College students' knowledge of risk and screening recommendations for breast, cervical, and testicular cancers

BACKGROUND

There is a gap in the literature regarding the knowledge of college students about breast, cervical, and testicular cancers.

METHODS

I surveyed 3362 college students were surveyed about their knowledge of risk factors and screening recommendations for these 3 cancers during the 2002-2003 school year at a large public university in the Northeast.

RESULTS

Students knew approximately 50% of the information about risk factors and screening recommendations for these 3 cancers. CONCLUSIONS. Based on these results, college students appear to have limited knowledge about breast, cervical, and testicular cancers and need education about them.

Beliefs and attitudes regarding smoking cessation among American Indians: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

American Indians (AI) have some of the highest smoking rates in the United States. The Muscogee Nation of Oklahoma developed a culturally targeted program called "Second Wind" based on the American Cancer Society's FreshStart smoking cessation program, but it has not been formally tested.

METHODS

We conducted six focus groups of AI adult smokers at the Haskell Health Center (Lawrence, Kansas). Focus groups assessed beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors related to smoking cessation, as well as participants' perceptions of the "Second Wind" curriculum's appropriateness and feasibility for this diverse group. Focus groups were audiotaped, transcribed, coded, and analyzed for content themes. Participants were 41 AI adults (63% female), 21-67 years of age. Participants smoked an average of 13 cigarettes per day, half had made a quit attempt in the past year, and 63% were daily smokers. For pharmacotherapy, most preferred the nicotine patch.

RESULTS

Focus group responses were categorized into three major themes: traditional tobacco use, quitting and quit attempts, and the "Second Wind" program. Those who reported that traditional tobacco use is important were less inclined to use tobacco recreationally. Second Wind modifications suggested by participants included increasing use of AI imagery and addressing the meaning of tobacco to AI cultures.

CONCLUSIONS

American Indian smokers are unique because of their traditional use of tobacco. Our participants felt that smoking cessation can be accomplished without discouraging traditional use of tobacco. We suggest ways to improve the "Second Wind" curriculum so that it is targeted for a heterogeneous group of AI smokers.