What are some of your methods for studying tobacco use?

Using mixed methods lets me get creative about how to address various research questions. One-on-one interviews are invaluable in understanding the first-person experiences of hard-to-reach groups that are often excluded in research. On the other hand, I think quantitative statistical methods are a fascinating way to distill large amounts of data down to easily understandable trends. Right now I am gaining experience with mixture models and latent models and loving it.

What are some of the reasons LGBTQ+ youths face a disproportionate tobacco burden?

Most studies relate the disproportionate tobacco burden to stressful experiences of being part of marginalized and stigmatized groups, such as sexual and gender minorities. There is also evidence that the community is more accepting of tobacco use, presumably due to the stressors of this marginalized status and the need to engage in coping mechanisms. Lastly, there is a rich history of targeted marketing to the LGBTQ+ community by tobacco companies, a demographic they know uses tobacco at much higher rates than most other groups.

What are some of the interventions that you’re exploring for this issue?

Most of my work so far has been exploratory and descriptive. Part of this included an informal evaluation of the first LGBT-focused tobacco cessation campaign from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In my postdoctoral work I hope to actually move into intervention implementation, which will include culturally-relevant and tailored components and messaging.

Is there anything to note about traditional tobacco products (eg cigarettes) vs ENDS in LGBTQ+ populations?

Like many young adults, many LGBTQ+ young adults find e-cigarettes appealing. Public health officials interested in harm reduction do point to e-cigarettes as a potentially valuable tool for curbing the morbidity and mortality related to combustible (cigarettes, cigars) tobacco use, but their long-term health consequence are unknown. Furthermore, the evidence so far generally points to allowing users to maintain a dual habit (on both e-cigarettes and cigarettes) – and remain addicted to nicotine . I would like to focus on intervention efforts that eliminate nicotine addiction in LGBTQ+ communities and instead focus on health-enhancing coping skills and tools for navigating stress.

To learn more about Hind’s research, visit her Google Scholar page to read publications.