Social Support Key in Helping Latinos Quit Smoking, Study Finds

Support from a partner improves the chance that Latinos will successfully quit smoking, a new study suggests. This support can also help counteract the negative effect that depression can have on quitting smoking.

2011 Campaign for Social Inclusion Awards

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has announced the availability of the 2011 Campaign for Social Inclusion Awards. These awards fund selected statewide peer-run organizations across the United States to promote social inclusion on state and local levels, and to counter the negative perceptions, attitudes and beliefs associated with mental health and/or substance use problems.

African American Smokers Much More Likely Than Caucasians to Use Tobacco Quitline

African American smokers are much more likely than Caucasians to use the counseling services of a California telephone tobacco quitline, according to a study that examined 18 years of calls.

Tobacco Use High Among American Indian and Alaskan Native Youth

Tobacco use is high among American Indian or Alaska Native youths, according to a study that found family members’ smoking habits were significant in predicting tobacco use.

N.M. Okays Beer Pong in Bars

New Mexico has ruled that beer pong can be played again in local bars as long as the games don’t involve drinking alcohol or gambling, the Portales News-Tribune reported Feb. 28. “It’s against the law for [liquor] licensees to allow…

Study Suggests Minorities Smoke Less, But Find Quitting Harder

New research suggests that smoking is less prevelant in communites of color, and, among those who smoke, racial and ethnic minorities are more likely to be 'light' smokers — but may find it harder to quit.

Drug Court Tests Recovery App for Smartphones

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Researchers are pilot-testing a smartphone application in an adult drug court program in Massachusetts to find out if it can help participants be more successful.

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More Employers Saying Smokers Need Not Apply

An increasing number of hospitals and medical businesses are making tobacco use a reason to reject job applicants or fire existing employees, The New York Times reported Feb. 10. Under the new “tobacco-free” hiring policies, applicants can be turned away…

Illinois: People of Color More Likely to Face Prison for Drug Crimes

An Illinois commission issued a report concluding that people of color facing low-level drug charges receive harsher and more frequent penalties than whites facing the same charges.