Differential racial/ethnic patterns in substance use initiation among young, low-income women

Accumulating research suggests that the gateway hypothesis of substance use may not apply equally across different race/ethnicity groups.

The current study examines racial and ethnic differences in patterns of initiation of licit and illicit substance use.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 696 low-income women between the ages of 18 and 31 who sought gynecological care between December, 2001 and May, 2003 in southeast Texas.

Overall, White women fit the classic profile of drug use initiation patterns, with those initiating tobacco and beer/wine at earlier ages being more likely to use illicit drugs. Conversely, African-American and Hispanic women initiated tobacco and beer/wine at much later ages than White women, but they were as likely to use illicit drugs.

To be optimally effective, prevention efforts may need to be tailored to fit the race/ethnicity of the audience. Further studies are suggested to investigate specific risk factors related to substance use initiation by race/ethnicity.