Acculturation level and change in cigarette consumption behaviors among diverse Hispanics/Latinos: the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos.

PURPOSE: To study associations between language acculturation level and changes in cigarette consumption among the diverse and growing U.S.-based Hispanic/Latino population and inform culturally tailored smoking prevention and cessation strategies. METHODS: In the Hispanic Community Health Survey/Study of Latinos cohort, we used cigarette consumption behaviors at baseline (2008-2011) and follow-up (2014-2017) and a modified Short Acculturation Scale for Hispanics (SASH) language subscale to measure associations of language acculturation (unidimensional) with changes in cigarette consumption and quitting rates. Weighted multivariable linear and logistic regressions were stratified by daily (n = 1397) and nondaily (n = 633) smoking, and either sex, educational attainment, or migration status. RESULTS: Smokers at baseline (n = 2030) on average were aged 42 years old (SE = 0.5) with a mean SASH-language score of 2.3 (SE = 0.1; range = 1-5), indicating more Spanish language use. Among male daily smokers, we observed increases in smoked cigarettes-per-day (CPD) with unit increases in SASH-language score (1.08, 95% CI: 0.24-1.92). Associations with acculturation trended toward greater increases in CPD and lower odds of quitting as educational attainment increased. CONCLUSIONS: Language acculturation level is an important determinant for increased smoking behaviors, particularly among men. Our findings are significant in informing smoking reduction programs for the Hispanic/Latino population.

COVID-19 risk perceptions, self-efficacy, and prevention behaviors among California undergraduate students.

OBJECTIVE: College students play a major role in the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the viral agent responsible for COVID-19. We aim to understand risk perceptions, self-efficacy, and adoption of prevention behaviors in this population to inform prevention strategies. PARTICIPANTS: Undergraduate students attending a large public university. METHODS: A convenience sample of students were surveyed (April-June 2020). Participants self-reported risk perceptions, perceived risk of contracting COVID-19, self-efficacy, and prevention behavior engagement. RESULTS: A total of 1,449 students were included in the analysis. The majority were women (71.2%) and aged 18-24 (86.6%). Freshmen had the lowest risk and threat perceptions, as did men; men also had lower self-efficacy. Women engaged significantly more in prevention behaviors compared to men. CONCLUSIONS: Perceived risk of contracting COVID-19 was low, but overall adoption of prevention behaviors was high due to local mandates. Freshmen men were identified as having the greatest need for changing perceptions and behaviors.