Abstract P113: Predictors and Correlates of Secondhand Smoke in Work Environments among Rural and Urban American Indians

Objective: In 2010 nearly 60% of American Indian (AI) adults in Minnesota reported they currently used cigarettes, a prevalence 3.5 times greater than the general population in that region. Here, we aim to describe the prevalence of secondhand smoke exposure and its correlates among Upper Midwest AIs in their homes and at work. Methods: Between 2010 and 2012 the American Indian Community Tobacco Project (AICTP) administered the Adult Tobacco Survey in collaboration with seven reservations and three urban communities in Minnesota. Eligible participants (n=2926) answered questions regarding exposure to secondhand smoke. Results: A third [33% (347 of 1059), 95% CI (30-36%)] of AIs reported being exposed to smoke in their workplace (compared to the 9% of the general Minnesota population). Half of males [50% (155 of 365), 95% CI (42-58%)] were exposed to secondhand smoke in the workplace, whereas only 27% [188 of 686, 95% CI (26-33%)] of females were exposed to secondhand smoke in the work environment. Of those who work on the reservation, 42% [237 of 570, 95% CI (36-48%)] of AI’s were exposed to secondhand smoke at their workplace. Within AI’s who have never smoked 25% [34 of 134, 95% CI (21-41%)] were still exposed to secondhand smoke within the workplace. Among AI’s who reported smoking policies in the workplace 30% [205 of 671, 95% CI (26-38%)] were exposed to secondhand smoke within the workplace, and 27% [158 of 578, 95% CI (20-30%)] of AI’s who stated their workplace was always enforced were still exposed to secondhand smoke in the workplace. A third [37% (120 of 321), 95% CI (35-54%)] of those who reported not having a workplace policy were exposed to secondhand smoke, demonstrating the need for policy development regarding smoking in the workplace. Conclusions: In conclusion, although strong policy protects most Minnesotans from secondhand smoke in workplaces, these policies do not seem to be benefitting AIs in the state. Discovery of who is at greatest risk for secondhand smoke exposure can inform future interventions and inform future policy optimization and protection.