Secondhand Tobacco Smoke Exposure in Homes and Vehicles in Youth: Disparities Among Racial, and Sexual and Gender Minorities

Authors

Rajesh Talluri
Sahil S Shete
Surendra S Shastri
Sanjay Shete

Publication Date

1-1-2024

Journal

Frontiers in Public Health

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Secondhand smoke exposure (SHSe) among youth is a serious public health concern, leading to an increased risk of conditions such as asthma and respiratory infections. However, there is little research on SHSe among vulnerable populations, such as racial and sexual minorities. Understanding the factors associated with youth SHSe in homes and vehicles is crucial to developing better protective policies.

METHODS: This study utilized 2020 data from the National Youth Tobacco Survey, a representative sample of middle- and high-school students in the US. The primary outcomes were youth SHSe at home and while riding in a vehicle. Multinomial regression models were used to assess factors associated with SHSe.

RESULTS: The data included 9,912 students enrolled in grades 6 through 12 in the United States who reported never using any form of tobacco. Non-Hispanic Black students living with someone who does not use any form of tobacco products were significantly more likely to experience moderate [OR = 2.1 (1.1-3.9),

CONCLUSION: Significant efforts are needed to develop targeted interventions to reduce SHSe in homes and vehicles, particularly in these vulnerable populations.

Keywords

Humans, Tobacco Smoke Pollution, Female, Male, Adolescent, Sexual and Gender Minorities, United States, Child, Surveys and Questionnaires, Students, Housing, Ethnic and Racial Minorities, Health Status Disparities, secondhand tobacco smoke exposure, racial disparities, sexual minorities, adolescents, National Youth Tobacco Survey

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Associated Data

PMID: 39109147