Tobacco Use among Adult Muslims in the United States

Abstract

Background: Compared with the general United States (US) population, Muslims in the US exhibit elevated rates of tobacco use. As a result, they might be at a higher risk for preventive disease and premature death as compared with the general US population. Objective: This study investigated the Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) factors that are associated with tobacco use among a sample of adult Muslims in the US. Methods: Data were collected (November 2016-March 2017) using a cross-sectional, on-line survey from a convenience sample of adult (≥ 18 years) US Muslims. Participants with a lung cancer history were excluded. Associations between SCT factors and tobacco use were investigated with bivariate analyses and multinomial logistic regression models.Results: Eligible participants (n = 271) from 30 states completed the survey; 52.8% reported current tobacco use. A higher rate of current tobacco use was reported by men (62.8%) as compared to women (41.3%), x 2 (1, N = 271) = 12.49, p<.001. In terms of cognitive factors, individuals who (1) expected more personal consequences for tobacco use on health, and (2) had more confidence regarding ability to abstain from tobacco use, were less likely to report current tobacco use. In terms of environmental factors, individuals whose family members did not use tobacco were less likely to report current tobacco use.

Colorectal Cancer Disease in Appalachia: Symptom Interpretation and Cancer Worry Predictors

“…We conducted descriptive analyses to identify the distribution of categorical variables with regard to SSCA. Due to lack of sufficient distribution, some variables including sect affiliation were collapsed into binary variables as explained in the original study (Attarabeen et al 2018). In order to examine associations with the primary variable of interest (i.e., number of SSCA), cognitive and environmental variables as well as demographic variables were investigated using 2 Poisson regression models, individually in an unadjusted model and collectively in an adjusted model.…”

“…We measured attitudes through evaluating smokers' overall opinions on cigarette smoking cessation (Hyland et al 2006). Responses to these four items addressing cognitive factors were assessed on a 5-point ordinal scale as detailed in the larger study (Attarabeen et al 2018). Finally, we measured self-efficacy using a continuous scale ranging from 0% to 100% (Perkins et al 2012).…”

“…Responses to vicarious learning were assessed using a binary scale (No/Yes) whereas responses to social norms were assessed using a 5-point ordinal scale. Responses to acculturation and religiosity were normalized to range from zero to 100 as explained in the original study (Attarabeen et al 2018).…”

“…In terms of barriers and facilitators, we measured nicotine dependence using the Heavy Smoking Index, a 2-item scale with high concordance with Fagerström Nicotine Dependence Scale (Chabrol et al 2005). Discussing cigarette smoking cessation with a physician anytime over the past 12 months (No/Yes) and rules of using tobacco inside the home (Not allowed/Allowed) were assessed using one item for each as described previously (Attarabeen et al 2018). Finally, use of cigarette smoking cessation techniques was measured using a multipleanswer item.…”

“…Responses included 1) nicotine replacement, 2) prescription medications, 3) behavioral support, and 4) no pharmaceutical/behavioral assistance. Lastly, Demographic Characteristics, including sex, age, race, ethnicity, marital status, education, employment status, income, health insurance status, and general well-being were measured using one item for each as explained previously (Attarabeen et al 2018).…”