Disparate Populations
Income, ethnicity, educational level, lifestyle and access to services are just some of the factors that contribute to higher smoking rates in certain populations. A statewide plan was developed to address the needs of Idaho populations with disproportionately higher rates of smoking. Some of those identified groups are:
- 18-24-year-olds
- Native Americans
- Latinos
- Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT)
- Industry and labor workers
The Idaho Tobacco Prevention and Control program has collected baseline data and is developing and executing appropriate programs that have become a national model replicated by other states.
LGBT Community
One area in particular that has been targeted by Big Tobacco is the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community. The tobacco industry has spent substantial marketing funds to methodically court the gay community, first by purchasing advertising in gay targeted publications, then coming into gay bars and giving away jackets, gym bags, lighters and other trinkets that carry their tobacco logos.
A 2004 statewide health survey sponsored by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW) found that more than 57 percent of lesbians and 67 percent of gay men responding to the study currently smoke. In addition, more than 75 percent of respondents who identified themselves as transgender said they are now smokers. In light of these facts, Project Filter has stepped up efforts to reach out to the LGBT community with smoking cessation information and is increasing efforts to have bars provide smoke-free venues for their patrons. (back to top)
Native American community
In Idaho 39% of the adult Native American population uses tobacco for recreational purposes almost double the rate (20%) of those who identify themselves as Caucasian. With twice the use comes a far greater increase in health-related problems.
Most smokers pick up the habit when they’re young. A youth tobacco survey given to students of the Owyhee Combined Schools in 2000 showed smoking remains a serious problem despite awareness of its negative health effects. It also revealed students were less aware of the dangers of exposure to secondhand smoke.
The Dreamcatcher Project
Virginia Howard, a health educator at the Owyhee Community Health Facility in Duck Valley, saw the report findings as an opportunity to create a program to teach kids the difference between ceremonial and recreational use of tobacco and emphasize the dangers of exposure to secondhand smoke.
It was during a brainstorming meeting with Idaho Department of Health and Welfare staff where the idea of building Dreamcatchers as part of the educational experience was first raised. Although not associated with Shoshone-Paiute cultural traditions, the Dreamcatcher is generally considered a popular symbol of Native American culture. Combining a curriculum with a fun activity associated with Native American culture was a unique way to approach tobacco education.
By program’s end the numbers pretty much told the story: 38 children and youth participated in the project along with 15 adults. Together they completed more than 50 Dreamcatchers, and a Dreamcatcher Project evaluation showed that everybody thought the information was useful, attendance was worthwhile, and most would attend future tobacco prevention and cessation projects of this kind.
The success of the Dreamcatcher Project is visible in the windows of homes scattered throughout the community. For Virginia it’s a definite sign that things can change if only we try.
Click to download the complete lesson plan that contains ancient stories regarding tobacco usage, Big Tobacco using Native Americans in their ads, and other useful information about the Dreamcatcher Project. (back to top)
