Development of group smoking cessation strategies for indigenous Australians

Authors:
Gillian Gould and Ricky van der Zwan

Presenter:
Gillian Gould
Senior Research Fellow, Rural Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Coffs Harbour, Australia

Abstract
Background: Indigenous people experience a 17 year lower life expectancy than other Australians. Smoking is the most significant cause of morbidity and mortality. While smoking prevalence in the general population decreased from 49% in 1945 to 17.8% in
2004 – 5, the Indigenous prevalence remains at 50%. Investigations have focused on brief intervention or community-based approaches but with little success or effective evaluation. Culturally appropriate group smoking cessation programs are considered worthy of trial given the positive results elsewhere.

Program scope and methodology: No Smokes North Coast – is a comprehensive program to support a culture of non-smoking in Indigenous communities on the North Coast NSW. It will provide education on the health effects of smoking, develop group smoking cessation services for Indigenous smokers, and train General Practitioners and Aboriginal Health Workers. Target groups are Indigenous youth, maternal smokers and partners, and hard-to-treat smokers. The Indigenous community will be engaged in extensive consultation. A mixed methodology study including participatory action research will ensure appropriate development of culturally safe programs with suitable artwork and media embedded into the programs at all levels.

Programs will be evaluated for cultural fit, suitability and sustainability. Participants will be surveyed for improved knowledge, behaviour change and quit rates.

Source of funding: Department of Health and Ageing Indigenous Tobacco Control Initiative

Declaration of interest: none