ABSTRACT
This study tested the feasibility of collecting saliva samples from Pacific Islanders (PIs) via a community-based participatory research approach. Collection of saliva samples were conducted by trained and trusted PI community leaders at various partner sites. A total of 214 saliva samples were donated by PIs living in Southern California, more than half of whom were females between the ages of 18 and 35 years. Donors indicated that they donated because they wanted to help science and their community. A majority of donors reported a very positive experience with the donation process and were willing to donate saliva and hair samples in the future. The positive findings of this article highlight the importance of community input and participation.
Subject(s)
Community-Based Participatory Research/organization & administration , Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice , Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander , Specimen Handling/methods , Specimen Handling/psychology , Adolescent , Adult , Female , Humans , Male , Saliva/cytology , Trust , Young AdultABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To examine the association between individual drug use and peer leaders use. METHOD: Analysis of drug use behaviors of 525 students randomized into three arms-control, standard, and networked where peers serve as group leaders. RESULTS: Among the combined male and female group, there was no association between peer leader and individual use. Among males, peer leader use at baseline was positively associated with individual alcohol use at post-test. Among females, peer leader use at post-test was negatively associated with marijuana and cigarette use. CONCLUSION: Having peer leaders in the network condition decreased the odds of marijuana and cigarette use among females. The opposite effect was found in males.
