Correlates of Tobacco Use Among Asian and Pacific Islander Youth and Young Adults in the U.S.: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Rates of tobacco product use, including the use of combustible and electronic cigarettes, remain high in youth and young adults within the U.S. Though a substantial body of work has examined risk factors associated with initiation and ongoing use of tobacco products, research on tobacco use and associated correlates among Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) has been more limited despite high rates in select API subgroups. This systematic review outlines recent research (2010-2020) on the correlates of tobacco use in APIs aged 9-29. To better understand determinants of tobacco use and identify gaps in the literature, we framed correlates based on the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) multidimensional research framework. Database and author-focused searches were conducted, followed by article abstract and full-text reviews, much of which were guided by a discrete set of inclusionary and exclusionary criteria related to tobacco use and youth/young adults. A total of 24 articles were included in this review. The majority of articles focused on individual-level correlates, with a high number of studies demonstrating association between behavioral and sociocultural factors and tobacco product use behavior. Interpersonal factors also made up a substantial portion of the literature, commonly focusing on peer, family, and social norms. Gaps related to the NIMHD model are addressed. Future research should examine biological and community/societal factors associated with API smoking to better understand unique correlates in this population and to inform tobacco prevention and intervention approaches. Public Health Significance This systematic review provides an updated overview of recent research related to correlates of tobacco use in Asian and Pacific Islander youth and young adults. We used the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) multidimensional research framework to outline the current research base and identify gaps in the literature.