Understanding Smoking and Cessation among Hmong Smokers

This qualitative study was designed to explore beliefs and experiences related to smoking and cessation among the Hmong population in the United States. Three separate focus groups were conducted with male and female Hmong smokers. Analysis revealed that the Hmong viewed smoking as prevalent in their community and perceived numerous barriers to cessation. Barriers to cessation differed based on gender and acculturation. For instance, women were concerned about having their smoking status revealed if they were to seek help, because of cultural prohibitions against female smokers. Less acculturated Hmong believed U.S. commercial tobacco to be more addictive than the homegrown tobacco they were used to. This formative research suggests that smoking is becoming an increasing problem among the Hmong in the United States and points to a need for additional research to inform the development of effective tobacco control strategies for this community.