American Indian Culture and Research Journal

Nontraditional use of tobacco is a major spiritual, cultural, and health concern for Aboriginal people across Canada. Community studies of Aboriginal people have shown elevated rates of smoking. Smoking is not only associated with increased health risk, but also appears to play a role in the abuse of other chemicals. The purpose of this study was to look at tobacco use and related substance abuse for clients in Aboriginal addiction centers across Canada. Addiction Treatment Centers, alarmed at the rate of smoking among its clients, requested a profile of smoking behaviors as a starting point for developing nonsmoking policies within its facilities. Two hundred and forty-six clients from fifteen Aboriginal addiction treatment centers across Canada were questioned about nicotine-related behavior. More than three quarters of respondents described themselves as smokers, and close to 12 percent claimed to be ex-smokers. Individuals also admitted to polydrug use, many starting very young. Typically, cigarettes and alcohol were the first chemicals used. Smokers and nonsmokers differed in age to initiation to alcohol; in addition, males and females differed in reasons for beginning to smoke and reasons for wanting to quit. Many clients reported that they were not aware of cultural teaching pertaining to tobacco. Implications for prevention, treatment, and policies are discussed.