NURS-FPX 4060 Practicing in the Community to Improve Population Health ​​​​​​​Health Promotion Plan In-Depth Analysis of Tobacco Use and its Cessation in California

Tobacco use and cessation in California pose a substantial community health concern despite notable strides in tobacco control efforts. While overall smoking rates have declined, certain demographic groups, particularly those with lower socioeconomic status and specific racial or ethnic backgrounds, continue to experience higher rates of tobacco use. For instance, the percentage of tobacco use among males and females in California is 14.7 % and 7.2%, respectively. Similarly, 9.8% of Hispanic or Latino groups are using tobacco in different forms, while 15.8% tobacco prevalence is among the American Indian group (CDPH, 2022).

This persistent prevalence of smoking contributes to significant health burdens, including increased risks of lung cancer, heart disease, and other chronic conditions. Ultimately, the consequences place strains on healthcare systems and diminish quality of life. Social and environmental factors, such as peer influence and exposure to tobacco advertising, shape individuals’ tobacco use behaviors. In contrast, policy interventions, such as tobacco taxes and smoke-free laws, have proven effective in reducing smoking rates (Mills et al., 2020). 

NURS FPX 4060 Assessment 1 Health Promotion Plan

While evidence-based interventions for tobacco cessation exist, there may be uncertainties regarding their effectiveness in diverse populations and contexts. Factors such as cultural beliefs, access to healthcare services, and individual motivations can influence the success of cessation efforts (Minian et al., 2020). The rapid proliferation of novel tobacco and nicotine products, such as e-cigarettes and vaping devices, introduces uncertainties regarding their long-term health effects and implications for tobacco control efforts. Moreover, while some individuals may use these products as cessation aids, others may transition to them or initiate tobacco use due to their perceived safety or appeal (Sapru et al., 2020).

Addressing tobacco use and cessation requires addressing underlying socioeconomic disparities that contribute to disparities in tobacco use prevalence and access to cessation resources. Overcoming these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the multifaceted determinants of tobacco use (Kastaun et al., 2020). Moreover, the plan must prioritize equity in access to cessation resources and leverage evidence-based strategies to promote tobacco-free communities and improve public health outcomes in California.