Tobacco Control Capacity Index for Communities of Color in the United States

Abstract

The development of tobacco control capacity within the United States has evolved in a social and scientific context contrary to the equitable distribution of resources among diverse populations. This pattern is evident in scientific initiatives that have seen relatively little development of culturally sensitive programs or materials. It is evident in the development of tobacco control coalitions by State and local agencies in both the public and private sector. Finally, lack of diversity is evident in the representation of staff in the primary agencies concerned with tobacco prevention and control. This results in a tobacco control movement that is predominantly comprised of white tobacco control advocates and professionals.