Percentage of Denver County Adults Who Smoke
no data available for Asian American/Pacific Islanders
15.4% White, non-Hispanic
(Tobacco Attitudes and Behaviors Survey - TABS, 2005)

It appears most AA/Pls believe tobacco use is acceptable, broadly speaking. More specifically, they may see it as a matter of personal choice, as not an immediate health risk, as a prerogative of age or status, or even as a mark of status or wealth. As mentioned above, there may be even a social obligation to offer tobacco to guests or at ceremonies, such as weddings.

It is seen as more appropriate for men than for women, possibly because tobacco is associated with sex and therefore sexual license, which for women would mean low morals, looseness, etc. For some groups, tobacco may be associated with prostitution, because prostitutes picked up the habit from American servicemen in their countries.

Role of tobacco in the community - For some groups, tobacco is used to celebrate social events, such as marriages or even simple social gatherings. Some Vietnamese routinely offer cigarettes and alcohol to their guests, as a host obligation.
(Tobacco Disparities Strategic Plan Draft, November 2006)

DATH Constituents
Asian Pacific Development Center
The Asian Tobacco Control Advisory Board

Tobacco Industry Targeting of Asian American/Pacific Islanders