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Chinwong S, Penthinapong T, Tengcharoenphongthorn P, Pingkaew S, Siriwattana K, Phrommintikul A, Chinwong D. Electronic Cigarettes and Tobacco Product Cessation: A Survey of Healthcare Providers' Opinions on Safety and Recommendation. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1410. [PMID: 39057553 PMCID: PMC11275567 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12141410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to: (1) assess healthcare providers' opinions on e-cigarette safety and compare them across professions; (2) evaluate providers' recommendations for e-cigarettes as a tobacco product cessation tool and identify any associations with their safety perceptions. Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was completed by 760 healthcare professionals (January-March 2020). The survey included eight opinions on e-cigarette safety with five Likert-scale answers and a question on recommending them for tobacco product cessation. Results: Among 760 healthcare providers (173 physicians/dentists, 69 pharmacists, and 518 nurses), only 20% reported prior experience with tobacco product cessation counseling. Providers expressed uncertainty regarding e-cigarette safety (mean ± SD: 2.5 ± 0.7 on a 5-point Likert scale), with no significant differences between professions (p = 0.836). Similarly, e-cigarette recommendations for tobacco product cessation remained low across professions (13%, 85/637), with no significant differences found (p = 0.072). The recommendation of e-cigarettes for tobacco cessation is associated with perceived safety, lower respiratory irritation, lower coughing, a lower risk of cancer, and a lower risk for secondhand smokers when compared to traditional cigarettes (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Most healthcare providers were unsure about the safety of e-cigarettes; about 13% of providers suggested using them for tobacco product cessation, with safety perceptions influencing recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surarong Chinwong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (S.C.); (T.P.); (P.T.); (S.P.)
- Research Center for Innovation in Analytical Science and Technology for Biodiversity-Based Economic and Society (I-ANALY-S-T_B.BES-CMU), Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Thitichaya Penthinapong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (S.C.); (T.P.); (P.T.); (S.P.)
| | - Phitinan Tengcharoenphongthorn
- Department of Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (S.C.); (T.P.); (P.T.); (S.P.)
| | - Siroj Pingkaew
- Department of Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (S.C.); (T.P.); (P.T.); (S.P.)
| | | | - Arintaya Phrommintikul
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand;
| | - Dujrudee Chinwong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (S.C.); (T.P.); (P.T.); (S.P.)
- Research Center for Innovation in Analytical Science and Technology for Biodiversity-Based Economic and Society (I-ANALY-S-T_B.BES-CMU), Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
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Otsuka Y, Kaneita Y, Itani O, Nakajima S. Prevalence, knowledge, and concerns regarding the use of heated tobacco products and electronic cigarettes among young Japanese physicians. Tob Induc Dis 2024; 22:TID-22-42. [PMID: 38370494 PMCID: PMC10870344 DOI: 10.18332/tid/178508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Heated tobacco products (HTPs) and e-cigarettes (ECs) have gained traction as alternatives for harm reduction, especially in Japan. In particular, the use of HTPs is rapidly gaining popularity among young adults in Japan, with a prevalence of 10.9% in 2020. Despite uncertainties regarding the health effects of HTPs and ECs, concerns regarding nicotine and carcinogens persist. Although physicians play a vital role in smoking cessation, they lack awareness and concerns regarding HTPs. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, knowledge, and concerns regarding HTPs and ECs among young Japanese physicians. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in 2021 with 529 young Japanese physicians aged 24-39 years. Parameters assessed included awareness, smoking status, knowledge of HTPs and ECs, and concerns related to HTPs. Statistical analyses were conducted to assess prevalence, knowledge, and concerns by smoking status using the chi-squared test and logistic regression. RESULTS Most participants were aware of HTPs (89.0%) and ECs (71.3%). Young male physicians preferred HTPs, while females favored ECs. Primary sources of information included newspapers and stories (56.8%), and TV (37.4%). Non-smokers (89.0%) demonstrated limited knowledge of these products. Concerns were highest and lowest among non-smokers and HTP users, respectively, with safety concerns being the most prevalent. CONCLUSIONS Young physicians exhibited lower smoking rates than the general population, but HTP use was prominent among young male physicians. Concerns varied based on smoking status, indicating the need to address these issues among healthcare professionals. Despite high awareness, knowledge gaps, particularly among non-smokers, highlight the importance of public health and educational campaigns to disseminate knowledge among physicians, regardless of medical specialty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuichiro Otsuka
- Division of Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Kaneita
- Division of Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Osamu Itani
- Division of Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Suguru Nakajima
- Division of Public Health, Department of Social Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Lobbe C, Bahnisch J, Lin C, Demirkol A, Murnion B. How do patients and staff in an opioid agonist treatment service view smoking cessation medications and e-cigarettes? Drug Alcohol Rev 2023. [PMID: 36877583 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tobacco use and related mortality is common in people receiving opioid agonist treatment (OAT). Smoking cessation medications are available and e-cigarettes are increasingly recommended for high risk populations. This study explores experience, knowledge and attitudes around smoking cessation medications (nicotine replacement therapy [NRT], bupropion and varenicline) and e-cigarettes in patients and clinicians in two public Australian OAT clinics. METHODS Cross-sectional surveys of patients and clinicians and a randomly sampled retrospective medical record review. Patients were recruited through an advertisement in the clinic, and clinicians through advertisement at an educational session. RESULTS Ninety-one patients and 10 clinicians completed the surveys. Most patients had at least one quit attempt and 43% were currently trying to quit. There were high levels of exposure to NRT, lower levels with varenicline and very limited exposure to bupropion. Patients considered e-cigarettes most helpful, but were more likely to consider using NRT. Few patients reported smoking cessation interventions from their clinicians. Most clinicians identified high tobacco use prevalence, considered this problematic, but reported low rates of smoking cessation intervention. NRT was the preferred medication. E-cigarettes were not considered helpful. Sixty-six percent of the 140 records reviewed documented patients as smokers. Tobacco cessation medication was rarely discussed or provided. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Patients report high rates of tobacco cessation planning, but low rates of intervention. Experience of varenicline and bupropion is limited. E-cigarettes were preferred over varenicline and bupropion. Improving patient's and clinician's knowledge of tobacco cessation medications could improve smoking cessation interventions and uptake of approved medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Lobbe
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New England, Armidale, Australia.,School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Jade Bahnisch
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New England, Armidale, Australia.,School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Chenxi Lin
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New England, Armidale, Australia.,School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Apo Demirkol
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Bridin Murnion
- School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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4
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Lou X, Liu P, Xie Z, Li D. Public Perceptions on the Policy of Electronic Cigarettes as Medical Products on Twitter. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2618. [PMID: 36767983 PMCID: PMC9915110 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Starting from 1 October 2021, Australia requires a prescription for purchasing nicotine vaping products. On 29 October 2021, the UK provided a guideline to treat e-cigarettes as medical products. This study aims to understand public perceptions of the prescription policy in Australia and the UK on Twitter. Tweets related to e-cigarettes from 20 September 2021 to 31 December 2021 were collected through Twitter streaming API. We adopted both a human and machine learning model to identify a total of 1795 tweets from the UK and Australia related to the prescription policy. We classified them into pro-policy, anti-policy, and neutral-to-policy groups, and further characterized tweets into different topics. Compared to Australia, the proportion of pro-policy tweets in the UK was significantly higher (19.43% vs. 10.92%, p < 0.001), while the proportion of anti-policy tweets was significantly lower (43.4% vs. 50.09%, p = 0.003). The main topics for different attitudes towards the prescription policy between the two countries showed some significant differences, for example, "help quit smoking" in the UK and "health effect of e-cigarettes" in Australia for the positive attitude, "economic effect" in the UK and "preventing smoking cessation" in Australia for the negative attitude, which reflected different public concerns. The findings might provide valuable guidance for other countries to implement a similar policy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xubin Lou
- Goergen Institute for Data Science, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14627, USA
| | - Pinxin Liu
- Department of Computer Science, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14627, USA
| | - Zidian Xie
- Department of Clinical and Translational Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Dongmei Li
- Department of Clinical and Translational Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
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Selamoglu M, Erbas B, Kasiviswanathan K, Barton C. General practitioners' knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and practices surrounding the prescription of e-cigarettes for smoking cessation: a mixed-methods systematic review. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:2415. [PMID: 36550439 PMCID: PMC9784030 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14696-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND General practitioners (GPs) play an important role in providing patients who smoke with health information, support and treatment to encourage them to quit smoking. Despite conflicting evidence on the effectiveness of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) as a smoking cessation aid, there is growing interest in the role e-cigarettes might play as an alternative to smoking tobacco. This systematic review aims to synthesise evidence from qualitative, quantitative and mixed-methods studies of the knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and social norms of GPs with respect to the use of e-cigarettes as smoking cessation aids. METHODS This study adhered to the PRISMA guidelines. Studies from MEDLINE, CINAHL, SCOPUS, PsycINFO, EMBASE and grey literature were searched. Two independent reviewers screened abstracts and full-text articles to identify studies that met the inclusion criteria. A data extraction form was used to extract relevant data from included papers and were quality appraised using the MMAT checklist. A PRISMA flow diagram was used to record the flow of papers and reasons for exclusion. Studies were included if they collected quantitative, qualitative or mixed methods data to determine knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and social norms of GPs for use of e-cigarettes as smoking cessation aids. RESULTS A total of 4056 abstracts were screened and 25 articles were included. Our findings showed that GPs had mixed views on recommending e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid. Some GPs were optimistic and had recommended e-cigarettes to their patients. Others were reluctant and disagreed that e-cigarettes are an effective method to quit smoking. Most GPs lacked knowledge and confidence in having discussions with patients around e-cigarette safety and efficacy as smoking cessation alternatives. CONCLUSION This systematic review shows there are mixed views on e-cigarettes as smoking cessation aids. Clear guidance on the role of e-cigarettes is needed to inform and upskill GPs about e-cigarettes for smoking cessation. PROSPERO REGISTRATION CRD42021227612.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melis Selamoglu
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Department of General Practice, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia ,Level 5, 553 St Kilda Road, Prahan, VIC 3181 Australia
| | - Bircan Erbas
- grid.1018.80000 0001 2342 0938Department of Public Health, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Karthika Kasiviswanathan
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Chris Barton
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Department of General Practice, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Cho YJ, Thrasher JF, Gravely S, Alberg A, Borland R, Yong HH, Cummings KM, Hitchman SC, Fong GT. Adult smokers' discussions about vaping with health professionals and subsequent behavior change: a cohort study. Addiction 2022; 117:2933-2942. [PMID: 35792058 PMCID: PMC10964167 DOI: 10.1111/add.15994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To measure the prevalence and changes in smokers' discussions with health professionals (HPs) about nicotine vaping products (NVPs) and HPs' recommendations about NVPs between 2016 and 2020, and their associations with tobacco product use transitions. DESIGN Cohort study using multinomial logistic regression analyses on data from waves 1 (2016), 2 (2018) and 3 (2020) from the International Tobacco Control Four Country Smoking and Vaping Surveys. SETTING Four countries with varying NVP regulatory environments: 'most restrictive' (Australia), 'somewhat restrictive' (Canada) and 'less restrictive' (England and the United States). PARTICIPANTS Adult exclusive daily smokers who did not report NVP use at the time of their baseline survey and had visited a HP in the last 12-24 months. Prevalence data came from 4125, 4503 and 4277 respondents, respectively, for each year. Longitudinal data were from 4859 respondents who participated in at least two consecutive surveys. MEASUREMENTS Prevalence of self-reported discussions with HPs and recommendations from HPs about NVPs. Longitudinal transitions from smoking to vaping (either exclusively or concurrently with smoking) and quitting (regardless of NVP uptake). FINDINGS The prevalence of NVP discussions was low among countries with varying regulatory environments and study waves (range = 1.4-6.2%). In 2020, a low percentage of smokers who discussed NVPs with a HP reported that their HPs recommended they use NVPs in the United States (14.7%), Australia (20.2%), Canada (25.7%), with a higher percentage in England (55.7%) where clinical guidelines for smoking cessation include NVPs. Compared with 12.0% of smokers who reported no discussion, 37.0% of those whose HPs recommended NVPs transitioned to vaping at follow-up. Transition to quitting was 9.6% with HPs' recommendation of NVPs versus 13.5% without discussion, a non-significant difference. CONCLUSIONS In Australia, Canada, England and the United States between 2016 and 2020, health professionals' discussions with smokers about nicotine vaping products (NVPs) were infrequent. NVP discussions were associated with NVP uptake, but not with quitting smoking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoo Jin Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - James F Thrasher
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Shannon Gravely
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Anthony Alberg
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Ron Borland
- Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Hua-Hie Yong
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - K Michael Cummings
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Sara C Hitchman
- Department of Communication and Media Research, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Geoffrey T Fong
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
- Department of Communication and Media Research, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
- Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Delnevo CD, Jeong M, Teotia A, Bover Manderski MM, Singh B, Hrywna M, Wackowski OA, Steinberg MB. Communication Between US Physicians and Patients Regarding Electronic Cigarette Use. JAMA Netw Open 2022; 5:e226692. [PMID: 35426926 PMCID: PMC9012960 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.6692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Physicians play a primary role in patient smoking cessation, yet their communication regarding e-cigarettes is not well understood. OBJECTIVE To assess physician-patient communication regarding e-cigarettes. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A national cross-sectional survey in 2018 and 2019 was conducted. Participants were invited by mail; surveys were completed online. Respondents were 2058 board-certified physicians from family medicine, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, cardiology, pulmonary, and oncology. Data were analyzed from August to September 2021. EXPOSURES Physician demographic characteristics, tobacco use, medical specialty, and harm-reduction beliefs (ie, not all tobacco products are equally harmful) applied within 2 hypothetical clinical scenarios. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Physicians' self-reported e-cigarette communication (being asked about e-cigarettes by patients and recommending e-cigarettes to patients) and hypothetical e-cigarette communication in 2 clinical scenarios. RESULTS Among 2058 physicians, the mean (SD) age was 51.6 (10.5) years, and 1173 (58.5%) were male. More than 60% of physicians believed all tobacco products to be equally harmful. Overall, 69.8% of physicians reported ever being asked about e-cigarettes by their patients (35.9% in the past 30 days), and 21.7% reported ever recommending e-cigarettes to a patient (9.8% in the past 30 days). Pulmonologists (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.14, 95% CI, 1.10-4.16) and cardiologists (aOR, 2.04; 95% CI, 1.03-4.05), as well as physicians who implemented the US Public Health Service Clinical Practice Guidelines (aOR, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.12-2.80), had greater odds of recommending e-cigarettes to patients. Physicians who endorsed a harm-reduction perspective (aOR, 3.04, 95% CI, 2.15-4.31) and had ever smoked cigarettes (aOR, 1.98; 95% CI, 1.27-3.08) were significantly more likely to recommend e-cigarettes. Physicians who reported being asked about e-cigarettes had greater odds of recommending e-cigarettes (aOR, 16.60; 95% CI, 10.33-26.68). In clinical scenarios, physicians were overall more likely to recommend e-cigarettes for cessation to an older heavy smoker with multiple unsuccessful quit attempts (49.3%; 95% CI, 47.1%-51.4%) than a younger light smoker with no prior cessation treatments (15.2%; 95% CI, 13.6%-16.7%) (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this survey study of physicians, findings suggest that physicians may recommend switching to e-cigarettes for some patients who smoke cigarettes under certain circumstances, presumably for cessation. The belief that all tobacco products are equally harmful was associated with lower rates of recommending e-cigarettes. As the evidence base grows for e-cigarette efficacy for smoking cessation, there is need for physician education regarding e-cigarette efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristine D. Delnevo
- Rutgers Center for Tobacco Studies, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Michelle Jeong
- Rutgers Center for Tobacco Studies, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Arjun Teotia
- Rutgers Center for Tobacco Studies, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | | | - Binu Singh
- Rutgers Center for Tobacco Studies, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Mary Hrywna
- Rutgers Center for Tobacco Studies, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Olivia A. Wackowski
- Rutgers Center for Tobacco Studies, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Michael B. Steinberg
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey
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Selamoglu M, Erbas B, Kasiviswanathan K, Barton C. GP knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and practices surrounding the prescription of e-cigarettes for smoking cessation: a protocol for a mixed-method systematic review. BJGP Open 2021; 5:BJGPO.2021.0091. [PMID: 34497095 PMCID: PMC9447306 DOI: 10.3399/bjgpo.2021.0091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are being marketed to people who smoke (PWS) as a smoking cessation aid. GPs have an important role in providing patients with support to encourage them to quit smoking. The emergence and marketing of e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation alternative poses challenges to GPs in advising and supporting PWS to quit. AIM This systematic review aims to synthesise available evidence on the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of GPs about e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid. DESIGN & SETTING Mixed-methods study review including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies of GPs in primary care settings. METHOD MEDLINE, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), Scopus, PsycINFO, and Embase databases will be searched to identify articles published between 1 January 2003 and 30 June 2021. A Google search will be conducted to identify grey literature. Two independent reviewers will screen abstracts for relevance and full-text studies. Articles will be appraised for quality using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) and a Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews, and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) diagram will illustrate the flow of articles and reasons for exclusion. An evidence synthesis method will be employed and guided by the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). A descriptive qualitative synthesis of the findings will be reported. CONCLUSION Findings will provide a synthesis of current evidence regarding the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions among GPs of e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid. This information will be useful to guide future research on the needs of GPs in advising and supporting patients to quit smoking. It will also assist in the development of health policy and guidelines on the role and place of e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melis Selamoglu
- Department of General Practice, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Bircan Erbas
- Department of Public Health, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Chris Barton
- Department of General Practice, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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McGee LU, Parker S, Bulsara S, Escobar B, Kline KN, Jibaja-Weiss ML, Montealegre JR. Adolescent electronic cigarette counselling: knowledge, attitudes and perceived barriers among clinical staff in a primary care setting. J Eval Clin Pract 2021; 27:1398-1402. [PMID: 33624429 DOI: 10.1111/jep.13553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess knowledge, attitudes, and perceived barriers (KAP) regarding e-cigarette use counselling among adolescent healthcare clinical staff in an urban system, and to compare results between providers and rooming staff. METHODS Primary care clinical staff (n = 169) completed an anonymous survey. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were used to summarize data and compare KAP between medical providers and rooming staff. RESULTS Staff wanted to learn more about e-cigarettes (87.6%). The most common knowledge deficits were how to use the 5As + 5Rs model for tobacco cessation counselling (66.7%) and the chemical content of e-liquids (55.4%), with no differences across groups. Overall, 58% of providers expressed confidence in their ability to talk with adolescent patients about e-cigarette use. The most common barriers to counselling were low knowledge about e-cigarettes (74.0%) and how to refer adolescent patients for cessation support (43.8%). CONCLUSIONS Provider and rooming staff expressed similar educational needs surrounding e-cigarettes, counselling, and treatment for adolescent patients. Clinical staff expressed confidence in their ability to affect change. There were no differences in the identified knowledge gaps or barriers to care between rooming staff and providers, suggesting that the same educational format can be used to target both groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindy U McGee
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.,Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Susan Parker
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Shaun Bulsara
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Betsy Escobar
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Kimberly N Kline
- Department of Communication, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Maria L Jibaja-Weiss
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.,School of Health Professions, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jane R Montealegre
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.,Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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10
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Mittal S, Uchida T, Nishikawa Y, Okada H, Schnoll RA, Takahashi Y, Nakayama T, Takahashi Y. Knowledge and self-efficacy among healthcare providers towards novel tobacco products in Japan. Prev Med Rep 2021; 24:101649. [PMID: 34976698 PMCID: PMC8684005 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2021.101649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Low knowledge of heated tobacco products among Japanese healthcare providers. Low self-efficacy for smoking cessation counseling about heated tobacco products. Previous trainings by Japanese Association of Smoking Control Science were useful. Female healthcare providers reported lower knowledge and self-efficacy.
Several new tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products (HTPs), have become highly prevalent in Japan. As safety data continues to evolve, healthcare providers are considered important sources for product use, yet little is known about provider knowledge or self-efficacy to counsel patient about novel tobacco product use. This cross-sectional study used data from a Japanese Association of Smoking Control Science (JASCS) online survey of physicians, pharmacists, nurses, and public health practitioners (N = 277) to assess provider knowledge of novel tobacco products and self-efficacy to counsel patients about product use. Correlates of knowledge and self-efficacy were also assessed. More than half the sample had received previous training in treating tobacco use, but 62% of respondents had no knowledge of HTPs; 80% of respondents indicated that they occasionally or always provide smoking cessation support. Overall knowledge of HTPs was low (41.4% correct) with higher knowledge for HTPs containing nicotine (89% correct) vs. HTPs emitting no carbon monoxide (25%). Self-efficacy to counsel patients about novel tobacco products was low on a scale ranging from 10 to 70 (Mean = 31.2; Standard Deviation = 16.7). Greater knowledge of HTPs was associated with male gender, higher rates of training at JASCS and previous learning about HTPs at JASCS. (p < 0.05). The results suggested that healthcare providers' knowledge and self-efficacy regarding novel tobacco products remains low in Japan, but additional training may improve it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Mittal
- Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Kyoto, Japan
- Corresponding author at: Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Yoshida-Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan.
| | - Tomoe Uchida
- Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Nishikawa
- Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Okada
- Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Robert A. Schnoll
- Department of Psychiatry and Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Yoshimitsu Takahashi
- Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takeo Nakayama
- Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuko Takahashi
- Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Kyoto, Japan
- Division of Translational Research, Clinical Research Institute, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
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11
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Kollath-Cattano C, Thrasher JF, Salloum RG, Albano AW, Jindal M, Durkin M, Strayer SM. Evaluation of a smoking cessation patient decision aid that integrates information about e-cigarettes. Nicotine Tob Res 2021; 23:1880-1888. [PMID: 33984145 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntab095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Smokers increasingly use e-cigarettes to try to quit smoking, even more than recommended cessation methods. However, few smokers discuss the range of cessation options with their physicians. Decision aids can inform smokers about smoking cessation options, including evidence about e-cigarettes, and encourage smokers to engage in shared decision making with their physician. This study aimed to evaluate a smoking cessation decision aid that included e-cigarette risks and benefits. METHODS Adult smokers were recruited from primary care clinics for two research phases: 1. usability and acceptability testing of the decision aid (n=37); and 2. pre/post study that compared usual care (n=90) with implementation of the decision aid in clinics (n=90). For the latter, outcome measures included frequency of clinical discussions of readiness to quit, methods to quit in general, and of specific cessation methods, in addition to decisional conflict, communication satisfaction, and overall patient satisfaction. RESULTS Smokers indicated high usability and acceptability of the decision aid. In the pre/post evaluation, decision aid implementation was associated with higher rates of smokers: being asked if they were ready to quit smoking (89% vs. 67%, respectively; p<0.001); discussing methods for smoking cessation in general (81% vs. 48%; p<0.001); and discussing specific cessation methods (NRT 55% vs. 26%, p<0.001; prescription medications 26% vs. 12%, p=0.022). Decision aid use was also associated with higher overall patient satisfaction with the physician visit. CONCLUSIONS Smoking cessation decision aids that incorporate information about e-cigarettes are acceptable among smokers and can lead to evidence-based clinical discussions about smoking cessation. IMPLICATIONS Smokers use e-cigarettes more than recommended cessation methods when they are trying to quit smoking, yet few physicians discuss the risks and benefits of e-cigarettes with their patients who smoke. This study presents preliminary findings about the feasibility and usability of a clinically based iPad-delivered smoking cessation decision aid that integrates information about e-cigarettes. Although promising, further research with randomized designs, larger samples, and longer-term follow-up is needed to determine whether this type of intervention can effectively promote cessation of all tobacco products and, for those not ready to quit smoking, the use of e-cigarettes for harm reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - James F Thrasher
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia
| | - Ramzi G Salloum
- Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville
| | | | - Meenu Jindal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Prisma Health, Greenville
| | - Martin Durkin
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia
| | - Scott M Strayer
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond
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Abstract
Electronic cigarettes are the most common form of nicotine delivery used by youth and young adults, and in 2018, the US Surgeon General declared this to be an epidemic. The developing adolescent brain is vulnerable to nicotine exposure, which can lead to long-lasting cognitive and mood disorders. Screening rates for vaping are low and lack of knowledge by adolescents, clinicians, parents, and caregivers is high. This article reviews the components of vaping, prevalence, adverse reactions, regulation, treatment, and prevention strategies related to vaping in youth and young adults.
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Hunter A, Yargawa J, Notley C, Ussher M, Bobak A, Murray RL, Nath S, Cooper S. Healthcare Professionals' Beliefs, Attitudes, Knowledge, and Behavior Around Vaping in Pregnancy and Postpartum: A Qualitative Study. Nicotine Tob Res 2021; 23:471-478. [PMID: 32621745 PMCID: PMC7885779 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntaa126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Finding effective ways to help pregnant women quit smoking and maintain long-term abstinence is a public health priority. Electronic cigarettes (ie, vaping) could be a suitable cessation tool in pregnancy for those who struggle to quit; however, healthcare professionals (HCP) must be informed about these devices to offer appropriate advice. This study used the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, and Behavior (COM-B) model and Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) to explore HCP attitudes towards vaping in pregnancy and postpartum; beliefs about the health risks of vaping; perceived barriers and facilitators of vaping in pregnancy; knowledge of current guidelines and policies; and training needs. METHODS Interviews (n = 60) were conducted with midwives (n = 17), health visitors (n = 10), general practitioners (n = 15) and stop smoking specialists (n = 18) across the United Kingdom. Interview transcriptions were analyzed thematically using the framework approach and the COM-B. RESULTS Discussing vaping as a tool for quitting smoking in pregnancy was prevented by a lack of capability (limited knowledge of vaping, lack of training in smoking cessation); lack of opportunity (restricted by organizational policies and guidelines, lack of time and financial issues impacting on training), and negative social influences (sensationalist media and stigma associated with vaping in pregnancy); and lack of motivation (fear of future litigation and comebacks should adverse effects from vaping arise). CONCLUSIONS Factors related to capability, opportunity, and motivation were identified that influence HCPs attitudes and behaviors towards vaping in pregnancy. Gaps in knowledge and training needs were identified, which could inform the development of targeted vaping training. IMPLICATIONS Vaping could be suitable in pregnancy for those struggling to quit smoking. However, HCPs must be informed about these devices to offer appropriate advice. These data extend our knowledge of factors influencing HCP attitudes and behaviors towards vaping in pregnancy. Generally, vaping was perceived as safer than cigarettes, but a perceived lack of evidence, health and safety risks, dependency, and regulation issues were concerning. Considering our findings, greater efforts are needed to ensure HCPs are sufficiently informed about vaping and guidelines available. More importance should be placed on training for all HCPs who have contact with pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abby Hunter
- Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Judith Yargawa
- Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Caitlin Notley
- Addiction Research Group, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Michael Ussher
- Institute of Social Marketing and Health, University of Stirling, Stirling and Population Health Research Institute, St George’s, University of London, London, UK
| | - Alex Bobak
- Alex Bobak, GP Specialist in Smoking Cessation, Wandsworth Medical Centre, London, UK
| | - Rachael L Murray
- Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Srabani Nath
- Division of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Sue Cooper
- Division of Primary Care, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, UK
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Brett J, Davies EL, Matley F, Aveyard P, Wells M, Foxcroft D, Nicholson B, De Silva Minor S, Sinclair L, Jakes S, Watson E. Electronic cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid for patients with cancer: beliefs and behaviours of clinicians in the UK. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e037637. [PMID: 33444179 PMCID: PMC7678366 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-037637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore UK clinicians' beliefs and behaviours around recommending e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid for patients with cancer. DESIGN Cross-sectional online survey. SETTING England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. PARTICIPANTS Clinicians involved in the care of patients with cancer. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOMES Behavioural Change Wheel capability, opportunity and motivation to perform a behaviour, knowledge, beliefs, current practice around e-cigarettes and other smoking cessation practices. METHOD Clinicians (n=506) completed an online survey to assess beliefs and behaviours around e-cigarettes and other smoking cessation practices for patients with cancer. Behavioural factors associated with recommending e-cigarettes in practice were assessed. RESULTS 29% of clinicians would not recommend e-cigarettes to patients with cancer who continue to smoke. Factors associated with recommendation include smoking cessation knowledge (OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.01 to 2.44) and e-cigarette knowledge (OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.06 to 2.55), engagement with patients regarding smoking cessation (OR 2.12, 95% CI 1.12 to 4.03), belief in the effectiveness of e-cigarettes (OR 2.36 95% CI 1.61 to 3.47) and belief in sufficient evidence on e-cigarettes (OR 2.08 95% CI 1.10 to 4.00) and how comfortable they felt discussing e-cigarettes with patients (OR 1.57 95% CI 1.04 to 2.36). CONCLUSION Many clinicians providing cancer care to patients who smoke do not recommend e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid and were unaware of national guidance supporting recommendation of e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo Brett
- Health & Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
| | - Emma L Davies
- Department of Psychology, Social Workand Public Health Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
| | - Fiona Matley
- Health & Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
| | - Paul Aveyard
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Mary Wells
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - David Foxcroft
- Department of Psychology, Social Workand Public Health Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
| | - Brian Nicholson
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Lesley Sinclair
- Molecular, Genetic and Population Health Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | | | - Eila Watson
- Health & Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
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UK Research Priorities for Electronic Cigarettes: A James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17228500. [PMID: 33212770 PMCID: PMC7697579 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17228500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to bring together people who smoke or vape, people who do not smoke and healthcare professionals to identify and agree priorities for electronic cigarette research in the UK. We carried out a priority setting partnership, guided by the methodology developed by the James Lind Alliance involving five key stages: initiation, consultation, collation, prioritisation and dissemination. A total of 765 people submitted 1887 questions that they wanted answered by research. Questions were organised into themes, merged and rewritten as summary questions, with 52 unique questions going forward to the prioritisation survey. Participants then ranked their top 10 questions. Following this ranking exercise, the top 26 were identified by selecting the most frequently prioritised questions adjusting for representative stakeholder group. These were put forward for discussion in the final prioritisation workshop, whereby the top 10 electronic cigarette research questions were agreed. The list of priorities identified will be of interest to researchers and funders of electronic cigarette research and will hopefully direct future research and funding calls. These priorities provide insight into the questions that matter to people who are using or concerned about e-cigarettes, including frontline professionals.
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Jose T, Hays JT, Warner DO. Improved Documentation of Electronic Cigarette Use in an Electronic Health Record. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17165908. [PMID: 32823985 PMCID: PMC7460036 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17165908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) can affect patient health and clinical care. However, the current documentation of e-cigarette use in the electronic health records (EHR) is inconsistent. This report outlines how the ambulatory clinical practices of a large U.S. hospital system optimized its electronic health records (EHR) framework to better record e-cigarettes used by patients. The new EHR section for e-cigarette information was implemented for outpatient appointments. During a 30-week evaluation period post-implementation, 638,804 patients (12 yrs and older) completed ambulatory appointments within the health system; of these, the new section contained e-cigarette use information for 37,906 (6%) patients. Among these patients, 1005 (2.7%) were identified as current e-cigarette users (current every day or current some day e-cigarette use), 941 (2.5%) were reported as former e-cigarette users, and 35,960 (94%) had never used e-cigarettes. A separate EHR section to document e-cigarette use is feasible within existing clinical practice models. Utilization of the new section was modest in routine clinical practice, indicating the need for more intensive implementation strategies that emphasize the health effects of e-cigarette use, and how consistent ascertainment could improve clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thulasee Jose
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-507-772-0703
| | - J Taylor Hays
- Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA;
| | - David O. Warner
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA;
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Erku DA, Gartner CE, Morphett K, Steadman KJ. Beliefs and Self-reported Practices of Health Care Professionals Regarding Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems: A Mixed-Methods Systematic Review and Synthesis. Nicotine Tob Res 2020; 22:619-629. [PMID: 30938442 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntz046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This review explores the (1) beliefs and attitudes of health care professionals (HCPs) toward electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) including use as a smoking cessation aid and/or harm reduction, safety and regulation, and (2) the extent and content of patient-HCP communication about ENDS. METHODS PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and PsycINFO were searched to identify articles published since 2003. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool and Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology checklists were used to assess the quality of studies. Thematic synthesis was used to analyze qualitative data. RESULTS A total of 45 articles (32 quantitative, 12 qualitative, and 1 mixed) were included. There was wide variation regarding beliefs about the efficacy of ENDS as a cessation aid. Although the majority of HCPs believes that ENDS are safer than combustible cigarettes, they also have concern about the short and long-term safety of ENDS, uptake by adolescents, and the potential for ENDS to act as a "gateway" to smoking cigarettes. Beliefs about ENDS are influenced by media stories and experiences provided by patients. Although most HCPs do not proactively recommend ENDS, they are more likely to support ENDS use among patients with smoking related comorbidities, heavy smokers with previous unsuccessful quit attempts, or patients who express interest in trying them. CONCLUSIONS Overall, HCPs hold diverse views about the efficacy of ENDS and expressed wariness over their potential health effects. HCP endorsement of ENDS use seems to depend largely on patient health status, the presence of other competing risk factors and patient preferences. IMPLICATION Although evidence on safety and efficacy of ENDS is emerging, HCPs should be honest with their clients, stating that the long-term safety is not yet established but what is known is that they appear to be a lower risk alternative to cigarettes. Our review highlights a need for further training and support for HCPs regarding ENDS use, which would enable them to guide their clients in making evidence-based decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel A Erku
- School of Pharmacy, University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Coral E Gartner
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Herston, Queensland, Australia.,Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kylie Morphett
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kathryn J Steadman
- School of Pharmacy, University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Queensland, Australia
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Koprivnikar H, Zupanič T, Farkas JL. Beliefs and practices regarding electronic cigarettes in smoking cessation among healthcare professionals in Slovenia. Tob Prev Cessat 2020; 6:3. [PMID: 32548340 PMCID: PMC7291891 DOI: 10.18332/tpc/115029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Electronic cigarettes (ECs) have generated extensive discussion about their role in smoking cessation. The Slovenia National Institute of Public Health's recommendations state that ECs are not to be recommended for smoking cessation or reduction. The aim of this study was to explore how healthcare professionals working in the field of preventive healthcare and smoking cessation in Slovenia communicate with and counsel patients regarding electronic cigarettes and smoking cessation or reduction. METHODS A cross-sectional, web-based survey was conducted among healthcare professionals working in the field of preventive healthcare and smoking cessation in Slovenia. A total of 479 healthcare professionals were included in the analysis. RESULTS While a minority of participants (12.7%) do or would recommend electronic cigarettes for smoking cessation or reduction in general, a higher proportion of participants (33.1%) would recommend electronic cigarettes to specific groups of patients. Knowledge on electronic cigarettes was the key determinant of differences in recommendations. Only a minority of participants (9.1%) reported availability of workplace guidelines/recommendations regarding counselling about electronic cigarettes. CONCLUSIONS Training programmes, educational materials and existing guidelines/recommendations regarding counselling about electronic cigarette use should be provided and distributed among healthcare professionals, together with efforts to ensure compliance to official guidelines/recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tina Zupanič
- National Institute of Public Health, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jerneja L Farkas
- National Institute of Public Health, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,General Hospital Murska Sobota, Murska Sobota, Slovenia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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19
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Breland A, McCubbin A, Ashford K. Electronic nicotine delivery systems and pregnancy: Recent research on perceptions, cessation, and toxicant delivery. Birth Defects Res 2019; 111:1284-1293. [PMID: 31364280 PMCID: PMC7121906 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), which includes e-cigarettes (ECIGs), are a rapidly-expanding class of products that heat a liquid (which may or may not contain nicotine) to produce an aerosol. The variation of ECIG components is extensive as are their effects on users. Epidemiological data show that while both adults and youth use ECIGs, use among youth has increased dramatically in recent years. Other epidemiological data show that women of reproductive age and some pregnant women are also using ECIGs. The goal of this article is to provide readers with background information about ECIGs, with a focus on recent findings about ECIG use in pregnancy and potential implications. Among pregnant women, correlates of ECIG use include current cigarette smoking, among other factors. Regarding pregnant women's perceptions of ECIG use in pregnancy, two themes emerge from the literature: many pregnant women perceive ECIGs to be safer than conventional cigarettes, and that ECIGs can aid with smoking cessation. In contrast to these perceptions, there is little concrete evidence that ECIGs help smokers quit. In addition, there are concerns about ECIG nicotine and other toxicant delivery. Nicotine is a toxicant of particular concern for pregnant women, as nicotine is known to harm a developing fetus. There are many limitations to existing research, and the literature is scant in this area. Further, new "pod mod"-style ECIGs such as JUUL present new challenges. Overall, with limited evidence of their effectiveness, and concerns about developmental toxicology, the authors do not recommend that pregnant women use ECIGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Breland
- Center for the Study of Tobacco Products, Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Andrea McCubbin
- Perinatal Research and Wellness Center, College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
| | - Kristin Ashford
- Perinatal Research and Wellness Center, College of Nursing, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
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20
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Baltz GM, Lach HW. Perceptions, Knowledge, and Use of Electronic Cigarettes: A Survey of Mental Health Patients. Issues Ment Health Nurs 2019; 40:887-894. [PMID: 31058546 DOI: 10.1080/01612840.2019.1579281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Tobacco smoking is the leading cause of preventable illness and death in the United States. Smoking and mental illness are often comorbid, yet little is known about mental health patients' perceptions, knowledge, and use of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). ENDS may be a beneficial short-term intervention to help this group quit smoking. A survey was administered to a sample of patients at an adult outpatient mental health office (N = 109, 45% male, mean age 33). The majority of participants had tried ENDS. Most used ENDS to quit smoking, and believed it was less harmful than smoking. Participants had variable knowledge about ENDS, but few had asked providers for recommendations. They reported providers were not very knowledgeable about ENDS, and were not asking providers for recommendations. ENDS may help mental health patients who have been unable to quit tobacco, but should not be recommended outside of smoking cessation. This survey provides needed information about how ENDS are being used by mental health patients to help guide future recommendations by their healthcare providers when screening for tobacco use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald M Baltz
- Saint Louis University School of Nursing , Saint Louis , Missouri , USA
| | - Helen W Lach
- Saint Louis University School of Nursing , Saint Louis , Missouri , USA
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21
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Gravely S, Thrasher JF, Cummings KM, Ouimet J, McNeill A, Meng G, Lindblom EN, Loewen R, O’Connor RJ, Thompson ME, Hitchman SC, Hammond D, Heckman BW, Borland R, Yong HH, Elton-Marshall T, Bansal-Travers M, Gartner C, Fong GT. Discussions between health professionals and smokers about nicotine vaping products: results from the 2016 ITC Four Country Smoking and Vaping Survey. Addiction 2019; 114 Suppl 1:71-85. [PMID: 30548374 PMCID: PMC6559875 DOI: 10.1111/add.14527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Debate exists about whether health professionals (HPs) should advise smokers to use nicotine vaping products (NVPs) to quit smoking. The objectives were to examine in four countries: (1) the prevalence of HP discussions and recommendations to use an NVP; (2) who initiated NVP discussions; (3) the type of HP advice received about NVPs; and (4) smoker's characteristics related to receiving advice about NVPs. DESIGN Cross-sectional study using multivariable logistic regression analyses on weighted data from the 2016 ITC Four Country Smoking and Vaping Survey (ITC 4CV1). SETTING Four countries with varying regulations governing the sale and marketing of NVPs: 'most restrictive' (Australia), 'restrictive' (Canada) or 'less restrictive' (England and United States). PARTICIPANTS A total of 6615 adult smokers who reported having visited an HP in the last year (drawn from the total sample of 12 294 4CV1 respondents, of whom 9398 reported smoking cigarettes daily or weekly). Respondents were from the United States (n = 1518), England (n = 2116), Australia (n = 1046), and Canada (n = 1935). MEASUREMENTS Participants' survey responses indicated if they were current daily or weekly smokers and had visited an HP in the past year. Among those participants, further questions asked participants to report (1) whether NVPs were discussed, (2) who raised the topic, (3) advice received on use of NVPs and (4) advice received on quitting smoking. FINDINGS Among the 6615 smokers who visited an HP in the last year, 6.8% reported discussing NVPs with an HP and 2.1% of smokers were encouraged to use an NVP (36.1% of those who had a discussion). Compared with Australia (4.3%), discussing NVPs with an HP was more likely in the United States [8.8%, odds ratio (OR) = 2.15, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.41-3.29] and Canada (7.8%, OR = 1.87, 95% CI = 1.26-2.78). Smokers in Australia were less likely to discuss NVPs than smokers in England (6.2%), although this was not statistically significant (OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 0.98-2.20). Overall, the prevalence of HPs recommending NVPs was three times more likely in the United States than in Australia (OR = 3.07, 95% CI = 1.45-6.47), and twice as likely in Canada (OR = 2.28, 95% CI = 1.06-4.87) than in Australia. Australia and England did not differ (OR = 1.76, 95% CI = 0.83-3.74). Just over half (54%) of respondents brought up NVPs themselves; there were no significant differences among countries. CONCLUSIONS Discussions in Australia, Canada, England, and the United States between smokers and health professionals about nicotine vaping products appear to be infrequent, regardless of the regulatory environment. A low percentage of health professionals recommended vaping products. This was particularly evident in Australia, which has the most restrictive regulatory environment of the four countries studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Gravely
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - James F. Thrasher
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
- Tobacco Research Department, Center for Population Health Research, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - K. Michael Cummings
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Janine Ouimet
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ann McNeill
- King's College London, Addictions Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - Gang Meng
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eric N. Lindblom
- O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law, Georgetown University Law Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ruth Loewen
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Richard J. O’Connor
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Mary E. Thompson
- Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sara C. Hitchman
- King's College London, Addictions Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - David Hammond
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bryan W. Heckman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Ron Borland
- The Cancer Council Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hua-Hie Yong
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tara Elton-Marshall
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, London, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maansi Bansal-Travers
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Coral Gartner
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Queensland, The Public Health Building, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Geoffrey T. Fong
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
- Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Kollath-Cattano C, Dorman T, Albano AW, Jindal M, Strayer SM, Thrasher JF. E-cigarettes and the clinical encounter: Physician perspectives on e-cigarette safety, effectiveness, and patient educational needs. J Eval Clin Pract 2019; 25:761-768. [PMID: 30784164 DOI: 10.1111/jep.13111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Revised: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE, AIMS, AND OBJECTIVES There is limited research on how health care providers approach the topic of e-cigarettes in clinical encounters, especially in conjunction with other best-practice recommendations for smoking cessation. This qualitative study explored physician perceptions and recommendations involving e-cigarettes in the context of smoking cessation counselling, including their opinions about the implementation and content of patient educational materials that focus on e-cigarettes. METHODS Semistructured interviews were conducted with 15 physicians from family medicine, internal medicine, and obstetrics/gynaecology (OB/GYN). RESULTS Physicians did not routinely assess e-cigarette use among patients and reported that discussions were often initiated by patients. Only a minority of participants discussed e-cigarettes in conjunction with other best-practice recommendations for smoking cessation. Most others were more ambivalent about e-cigarette safety and effectiveness for cessation and did not address the topic, unless patients were already using e-cigarettes. Almost all, however, agreed that more research on e-cigarettes was needed. Physicians expressed an interest in having enhanced discussions about e-cigarettes with their patients and in using patient educational materials to accomplish this. Physicians recommended that these materials not actively promote e-cigarettes and be tailored to patients based on their demographics and motivation to quit. CONCLUSIONS Physicians were open to improving their smoking cessation counselling and to integrating new patient educational materials that addressed e-cigarettes. Patient educational materials that provide tailored information about e-cigarettes could potentially be used initiate e-cigarette discussions and inform smokers about what is known vs unknown about e-cigarettes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christy Kollath-Cattano
- Department of Health and Human Performance, College of Charleston, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Tyler Dorman
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - Andrew W Albano
- Department of Family Medicine, Prisma Health, University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, Greenville, South Carolina
| | - Meenu Jindal
- Internal Medicine Clinic, Prisma Health Upstate, Greenville, South Carolina
| | - Scott M Strayer
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, South Carolina
| | - James F Thrasher
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina
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Cigarette and E-Cigarette Use and Smoking Cessation Practices among Physicians in Poland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16193595. [PMID: 31557913 PMCID: PMC6801531 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16193595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Physicians play a key role in combating tobacco use. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and behaviors toward smoking cessation and vaping cessation interventions among physicians in Poland; to identify factors shaping physicians’ behaviors toward smoking and vaping cessation interventions; and to assess differences in the tobacco cessation interventions recommended for cigarette smokers and users of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). A questionnaire-based survey was conducted in 2018 among physicians attending mandatory public health training courses delivered at the School of Public Health, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland. The questionnaire included 25 questions related to tobacco product use and smoking cessation interventions. Data were obtained from 423 physicians (64.3% female; mean age 32.0 ± 5.8 years) with response rate of 84.6%. Current cigarette smoking was declared by 7.8% of participants; 1.9% of participants were e-cigarette users and 1.9% used heated tobacco. Smoking cessation interventions were offered more often to patients who smoked cigarettes than those who used e-cigarettes (p < 0.001). Physicians’ behaviors toward smoking cessation and vaping cessation interventions were associated with (p < 0.05) physicians’ smoking status and self-declared knowledge about smoking cessation methods. Among physicians in Poland, discussion of smoking cessation was not common behavior and limited mainly to identification of smoking status.
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24
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Beliefs, Attitudes, and Confidence to Deliver Electronic Cigarette Counseling among 1023 Chinese Physicians in 2018. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16173175. [PMID: 31480401 PMCID: PMC6747414 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16173175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Background: The use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) is gaining popularity, so it is important to evaluate physicians’ understanding of e-cigarettes. This study assessed the beliefs, attitudes, and confidence in e-cigarette counseling among Chinese physicians and explored the factors related to asking patients about e-cigarette use. Methods: Physicians from across China were invited to participate in a questionnaire survey using the platform provided by DXY (www.dxy.cn) in 2018. In total, 1023 physicians completed the online survey. Descriptive analyses were used to characterize the participants, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were applied to identify predictors of physicians’ asking about patients’ e-cigarette use. Results: Only 46.3% of respondents agreed that e-cigarettes had adverse health effects, and 66.8% indicated that e-cigarettes can be regarded as a type of smoking cessation treatment. We found that 61.3% thought it was important to discuss e-cigarettes with patients, and 71.7% reported feeling confident about their ability in counseling about e-cigarettes. Respondents who had used e-cigarettes (OR = 2.05; 95% CI: 1.16–2.63), had received training about e-cigarettes (OR = 3.13; 95% CI: 2.17–4.52), or were confident about their ability to answer patients’ question about e-cigarettes (OR = 2.45; 95% CI: 1.65–3.65) were more likely to ask patients about e-cigarette use. Physicians who showed a supportive attitude toward using e-cigarettes to quit smoking (OR = 0.79; 95% CI: 0.63–0.99) were less likely to ask about patients’ e-cigarettes use frequently. Conclusions: Chinese physicians appeared to ignore the adverse health effects of e-cigarettes, and considered e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation treatment. Comprehensive training and regulations are needed to help physicians incorporate the screening of e-cigarette use into routine practice and provide patients truthful information as new data emerge.
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25
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Zgliczyński WS, Jankowski M, Rostkowska O, Gujski M, Wierzba W, Pinkas J. Knowledge and Beliefs of E-Cigarettes Among Physicians in Poland. Med Sci Monit 2019; 25:6322-6330. [PMID: 31439826 PMCID: PMC6719564 DOI: 10.12659/msm.916920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electronic nicotine delivery systems, including electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are gaining popularity. The objectives of this study were to assess the knowledge and beliefs about e-cigarettes among physicians in Poland. MATERIAL AND METHODS A questionnaire-based survey was conducted among physicians attending mandatory courses delivered at the School of Public Health, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education (Warsaw, Poland). The questionnaire included 24 questions concerning beliefs and attitudes about e-cigarettes. RESULTS Data were obtained from 412 physicians (64.3% females; aged 31.9±5.7 years) with a response rate of 82.4%. Among participants, 99.8% were aware of e-cigarettes. The main sources of information about e-cigarettes were: news stories (67.2%) or points of sale of e-cigarettes (67.6%). Approximately half of respondents (50.2%) declared moderate knowledge about e-cigarettes, and over three-quarters (78.1%) declared willingness to learn more about e-cigarettes. The majority (96.5%) of participants agreed with the statement that e-cigarette use is harmful to the user's health, and most (80.5%) agreed that exhaled e-cigarette aerosol is harmful to bystanders. The statement that e-cigarettes could be "gateway" to conventional smoking was supported by 87% of participants. Only 11.5% of physicians agreed that e-cigarettes should be recommended as a smoking cessation method. CONCLUSIONS Physicians in Poland perceive e-cigarettes as harmful and addictive. Physicians' knowledge about e-cigarettes is mostly based on non-scientific sources, which points out the urgent need to develop national smoking cessation guidelines regulating the issue of e-cigarettes based on scientific evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mateusz Jankowski
- School of Public Health, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Olga Rostkowska
- Department of Transplantation Medicine, Nephrology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Mariusz Gujski
- Department of Prevention of Environmental Hazards and Allergology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Waldemar Wierzba
- UHE Satellite Campus in Warsaw, University of Humanities and Economics in Łódź, Łódź, Poland
| | - Jarosław Pinkas
- School of Public Health, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
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Knowledge about E-Cigarettes and Tobacco Harm Reduction among Public Health Residents in Europe. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16122071. [PMID: 31212756 PMCID: PMC6617304 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16122071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Although electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and other tobacco-related products are becoming widely popular as alternatives to tobacco, little has been published on the knowledge of healthcare workers about their use. Thus, the aim of this study was to elicit the current knowledge and perceptions about e-cigarettes and tobacco harm reduction (THR) among medical residents in public health (MRPH). Material and Methods: A Europe-wide cross-sectional study was carried out amongst MRPH from the countries associated with the European Network of MRPH from April to October 2018 using an online questionnaire. Results: 256 MRPHs agreed to participate in the survey. Approximately half the participants were women (57.4%), with a median age of 30 years, and were mainly Italian (26.7%), Spanish (16.9%) and Portuguese (16.5%). Smoking prevalence was 12.9%. Overall, risk scores significantly differed for each investigated smoking product when compared with e-cigarettes; with tobacco cigarettes and snus perceived as more risky, and nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and non-NRT oral medications seen as less risky (p < 0.01 for all). Regarding the effects of nicotine on health, the vast majority of MRPHs associated nicotine with all smoking-related diseases. Knowledge of THR was low throughout the whole sample. Conclusions: European MRPH showed a suboptimal level of knowledge about e-cigarettes and THR. Training programs for public health and preventive medicine trainees should address this gap.
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Luxton NA, Shih P, Rahman MA. Electronic Cigarettes and Smoking Cessation in the Perioperative Period of Cardiothoracic Surgery: Views of Australian Clinicians. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15112481. [PMID: 30405035 PMCID: PMC6266597 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15112481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Revised: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
For patients who smoke, electronic cigarettes may offer a pathway to achieve tobacco abstinence and reduce the risk of postoperative complications. Clinicians have a pivotal role in supporting smoking cessation by patients with lung cancer and coronary artery disease throughout the perioperative period of cardiothoracic surgery. However, the views of Australian cardiothoracic clinicians on electronic cigarettes and smoking cessation are unknown. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 52 cardiothoracic surgeons, anaesthetists, nurses and physiotherapists in six hospitals in Sydney and thematically analysed. Clinicians’ knowledge about electronic cigarettes and the regulatory environment surrounding them was limited. Clinicians believed that: electronic cigarettes, though unlikely to be safe, were safer than tobacco cigarettes; electronic cigarettes may have a harm reduction role in public health; and electronic cigarettes were a potential smoking cessation tool for the extraordinary circumstances of surgery. The professional role of a clinician and their views about electronic cigarettes as a perioperative smoking cessation aid had an influence on future clinician-patient interactions. Electronic cigarette use is increasing in Australia and clinicians are likely to receive more frequent questions about electronic cigarettes as a cessation aid. Stronger guidance for clinicians is needed on the topic of electronic cigarettes and cardiothoracic surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nia A Luxton
- Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney 2109, Australia.
| | - Patti Shih
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, Sydney 2109, Australia.
| | - Muhammad Aziz Rahman
- Austin Clinical School of Nursing, La Trobe University, Melbourne 3084, Australia.
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