Beliefs about tobacco among Appalachian current and former users.

Higher risks of tobacco-related morbidity and mortality in Appalachians provided the impetus for this qualitative study. The purpose was to describe beliefs about tobacco use and cessation among current and former tobacco users in rural Appalachia using focus groups. Findings included themes of nicotine addiction and pros and cons of tobacco use. The importance of family and personal independence in relation to tobacco were evident. Participants identified helpful tobacco treatment strategies. Similarities to treatment needs of tobacco users in general underscore the point that rural Appalachians require best practice tobacco treatment integrating unique cultural aspects of family and personal independence. Copyright 2003 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.