Abstract P087: Use of Tobacco Products Among LGBTQ: Results From 2016 Surveys & Focus Groups

Abstract

Background: Cigarette smoking has been reported to be high among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered and Queer (LGBTQ) populations. However, in-depth information on perception, knowledge, attitudes and behaviors, is limited. Methods: We analyzed 2016 data from the AHA-Tobacco Regulatory Addiction Center (A-TRAC) study on multi-ethnic LGBTQ groups living primarily in Chicago and New York City, ages 18-64, smokers and non-smokers. Twenty-nine focus groups and 99 individual surveys were conducted to obtain socio-demographic-economic characteristic and in-depth information on tobacco use, including cigarette smoking. Atlas.ti and SAS 9.4 were used for data analyses. Results: Of 99 participants, 58.8% of LGBTQ individuals reported smoking 100+ cigarettes during their life time; 49.5% (n=49) reported current cigarette smoking; and 17% reported frequent or occasional use of e-cigarette, e-hookah and/or other types of vaping. Age (25+) and low household income (<$20,000) were significantly associated with the use of cigarette smoking. While 70.2% stated that cigarette smoking is very dangerous to health and 43.2% of respondents said that tobacco use is a very serious problem in the LGBTQ community, current smokers were unlikely to quit smoking (67%). Focus group discussions revealed that smoking a cigarette is a form of stress relief, a way of “expressing yourself”, and a way of “fitting in”. Heavy marketing by the tobacco industry as well as stress associated with social discrimination, family and friend rejections and limited income, were also factors identified with tobacco use. These findings were particularly true among transgender women and bisexual men and women. Conclusions: Cigarette smoking was high among the LGBTQ individuals in our sample and they seems unlikely to quit. Social stressors appear to be a strong contributing factor. Educational efforts and culturally appropriate messages to this population, are critical.