Coaches' knowledge and awareness of spit tobacco use among youth athletes: results of a 2009 Ontario survey

Introduction: Public health professionals have become concerned that spit tobacco (ST) use among athletes is increasing. However, little is known about the issue in Canada, particularly among youth. Methods: The Not to Kids Coalition and the Coaches Association of Ontario surveyed coaches regarding ST knowledge and awareness and their perceived roles as coaches in influencing ST use among their athletes. Surveys were distributed electronically to individuals who coached male and female youth aged 9 to 18 years in baseball, basketball, football, soccer, and track and field, in Ontario. Results: Almost all of the surveyed coaches responded correctly to questions about the health effects of ST use, and about 80% of respondents answered correctly to the question about legislation associated with ST and youth. Conclusion: Most coaches are interested in receiving information about ST, particularly the health effects of ST use and how to prevent ST use among athletes. Multiple formats should be used to provide information to coaches, including both electronic and hard copy materials.