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Al-Jindi L, Al-Sulaiman N, Al-Jayyousi GF. Barriers to seeking tobacco cessation services: a qualitative assessment of university students' needs in Qatar. HEALTH EDUCATION RESEARCH 2024; 39:212-227. [PMID: 38324742 DOI: 10.1093/her/cyae006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
The prevalence of tobacco use in the Middle East is alarmingly high, especially among university students; most users initiate tobacco use during adolescence and young adulthood. Evidence-based cessation services can be beneficial when quitting tobacco use; however, these services are underutilized. This study aimed to explore the barriers preventing university students in Qatar from seeking tobacco cessation services. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 Qatar University students who are current or former tobacco users (n = 18/2); most current cigarette smokers were also waterpipe users. The interviews were transcribed verbatim, coded, and analyzed using thematic analysis. The major barriers to seeking tobacco cessation services included misconceptions regarding nicotine addiction, negative perceptions of the cessation services' effectiveness, self-efficacy regarding the ability to quit without seeking cessation services, concerns and preferences regarding practitioners' characteristics at clinics, masculine culture that discourages men from seeking cessation help, social stigma around women who use tobacco in Arab culture, and a lack of time to visit cessation clinics. Our findings address gaps in the literature regarding the individual and sociocultural barriers to seeking tobacco cessation among youth in Qatar. A better understanding of these barriers can facilitate successful promotion of tobacco cessation services and enhance cessation-seeking behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lama Al-Jindi
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Naema Al-Sulaiman
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ghadir Fakhri Al-Jayyousi
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
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Ouanes S, Hashem LA, Makki I, Khan F, Mahgoub O, Wafer A, Dulaimy O, Amro R, Ghuloum S. Mortality in Qatari individuals with mental illness: a retrospective cohort study. Ann Gen Psychiatry 2024; 23:14. [PMID: 38637811 PMCID: PMC11027414 DOI: 10.1186/s12991-024-00499-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is substantial evidence that people with mental illness have higher mortality rates than the general population. However, most of the studies were from Western countries, and it is not clear whether this finding also applies to Arab countries like Qatar. OBJECTIVES We aimed to explore whether mortality in patients with mental illness in Qatar, is different from those without. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study, including all Qatari nationals deceased in 2017 and 2018, using the list of registered deaths from Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) Mortuary. We divided the cohort of deceased people into two groups: with and without mental illness. For each of the groups, we collected the age at death, the reported cause of death as well as sociodemographic and clinical data. RESULTS There were 602 registered deaths in 2017 and 589 deaths in 2018. The prevalence of mental illness was 20.4%. Compared to subjects without mental illness, subjects with mental illness surprisingly had higher age at death (median ± IQR = 76.5 ± 22.1 years vs. 62.7 ± 32.9 years; p < .001). This difference persisted even after we controlled for covariates. Individuals with mental illness were more likely to die of an infection (OR = 1.98[1.44;2.71]), or of chronic respiratory disease (OR = 3.53 [1.66;7.52]) but less likely to die because of accidental (OR = 0.21[0.09;0.49]) or congenital causes (OR = 0.18[0.04;0.77]). CONCLUSION Contrary to most previous studies, we did not find that mortality was higher in Qatari individuals with mental illness. Sociocultural factors, free and easy-to-access healthcare, and an enhanced role of mental health professionals in detecting medical comorbidities may explain this finding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sami Ouanes
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, POBOX 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Lien Abou Hashem
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, POBOX 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ibrahim Makki
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, POBOX 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Faisal Khan
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, POBOX 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Omer Mahgoub
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, POBOX 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ahmed Wafer
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, POBOX 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Omer Dulaimy
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, POBOX 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Raed Amro
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, POBOX 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Suhaila Ghuloum
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, POBOX 3050, Doha, Qatar.
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Al-Kuwari MG, Al-Khenji AA, Al-Baker WA, Bala MO. Tobacco control in Qatar from 2002 to 2022: 20 years of progress and challenges. J Public Health Res 2024; 13:22799036241229341. [PMID: 38322020 PMCID: PMC10846134 DOI: 10.1177/22799036241229341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Tobacco use and exposure has been known as one of the leading causes of premature mortality worldwide. Tobacco control measures have been considered one of the strategies for reducing the burden of NCDs, improving public health, and strengthening the health system's response to threats and pandemics. The State of Qatar has put tobacco control a national public health priority as it has adopted various tobacco control measures that the WHO classified as high-impact measures. This has resulted in achieving tobacco control milestones which led to constant monitoring of tobacco use and the provision of smoking cessation services at all healthcare levels. However, there is still much work to be done to fill the gaps and respond to the emergence of novel tobacco products and market strategies in an effective way. This review highlights the status of tobacco use and exposure in the State of Qatar, and focus on the progress, and challenges in the implementation of tobacco control policies and smoking cessation services between 2002 and 2022.
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Dalibalta S, Makhlouf Z, Rabah L, Samara F, Elsayed Y. A literature review addressing midwakh and e-cigarette use in the Gulf region. J Egypt Public Health Assoc 2023; 98:21. [PMID: 38110669 PMCID: PMC10728422 DOI: 10.1186/s42506-023-00146-4] [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: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
A notable decrease in conventional cigarette smoking has been witnessed on a global scale. However, this decrease has been accompanied by an equally striking global increase in the consumption of alternative tobacco products (ATPs), namely e-cigarettes and midwakh in the Arabian Gulf region. A literature review was used to outline the chemical composition of these two ATPs and review their impacts on health. The study was conducted using databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, MDPI, and WorldCat. The literature search included terms such as "e-cigarettes," "midwakh," "dokha," "heath impacts," "psychological effects," "social influences," and "cigarette smoking" with emphasis on literature from the Arabian Gulf region. Data shows that midwakh contains markedly high levels of tar, nicotine, and various compounds of notable effects on the human body. Similarly, it was found that e-cigarettes contain non-negligible amounts of nicotine and other chemical compounds that may not have been extensively investigated. Alarming reports of system-specific effects brought about by midwakh, and e-cigarette consumption, have been reported, although further research is needed to deduce the mechanism. We also discussed some of the social and psychological factors leading to their consumption within this population. Hence, this review raises questions around the safety of these two types of ATPs and encourages comprehensive studies globally and regionally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Dalibalta
- Department of Biology, Chemistry & Environmental Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE.
| | - Zinb Makhlouf
- Department of Biology, Chemistry & Environmental Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Layal Rabah
- Department of Biology, Chemistry & Environmental Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Fatin Samara
- Department of Biology, Chemistry & Environmental Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | - Yehya Elsayed
- Advanced Research and Development, Fiber Media at Donaldson, Donaldson, MN, USA
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Jirjees F, Dallal Bashi YH, Kharaba Z, Ahmadi K, Barakat M, AlObaidi H. Public awareness, prevalence, and regulations for the sale of electronic cigarettes in Arab countries: A narrative review. Tob Induc Dis 2023; 21:143. [PMID: 37901882 PMCID: PMC10603825 DOI: 10.18332/tid/168435] [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: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The majority of the Arab countries have high records of daily tobacco smoking. Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) use has exponentially increased in the past decade in Arab countries. Consumers' willingness to quit smoking traditional cigarettes and their perception of e-cigarettes as a safer alternative to conventional cigarettes have increased the demand for these devices. This narrative review aimed to gather and discuss the available literature on the awareness, prevalence, and sales regulations of e-cigarettes in Arab countries. A search was conducted on electronic databases such as PubMed, Medline, Scopus, and Google Scholar with no time limits until the end of 2021. Some of the recent studies (2019-2021) considered in this review have reported that more than 25% of participants were e-cigarettes users. The prevalence of e-cigarettes has increased drastically with raised awareness of e-cigarettes among the population in these Arab countries. Most of the users of e-cigarettes are young males. In addition, an increase in e-cigarettes use has been reported in females. The policies which regulate trade and sale of e-cigarettes and related products were issued in only three Arab countries. In contrast, regulations for the trade and sale of traditional cigarette products are also applied in some countries to e-cigarette products, banning the sale of e-cigarettes to minors and/or amend smoke-free laws to restrict public use of e-cigarettes. There is a need for a concerted effort to assess the prevalence and significant rise of e-cigarettes consumption in Arab societies to help implement and improve harm reduction policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feras Jirjees
- College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Zelal Kharaba
- College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle, United Kingdom
| | - Keivan Ahmadi
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration Northwest London, Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Muna Barakat
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, School of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Hala AlObaidi
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
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Alshaibani M, Alajmi M, Alabduljalil N, Alajmi H, Alsalem Y, Aloqab D, Alawadhi H, Ali SS, Sharhan Y, Alzeeny A, Ziyab AH. Prevalence of use, perceptions of harm and addictiveness, and dependence of electronic cigarettes among adults in Kuwait: A cross-sectional study. Tob Induc Dis 2023; 21:90. [PMID: 37456607 PMCID: PMC10347961 DOI: 10.18332/tid/163300] [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: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) have become one of the most common forms of nicotine delivery used by youth and young adults worldwide. Given the lack of epidemiologic data in Kuwait, this study sought to estimate the prevalence of e-cigarette use, assess perceptions of harm and addictiveness of e-cigarettes, measure the level of dependence on e-cigarettes and assess factors associated with dependence level among adults. METHODS A cross-sectional study enrolled adults (n=3032, aged ≥18 years) living in Kuwait using a web-based questionnaire. Participants self-reported ever and current (past 30-day) e-cigarette use and self-completed the 10-item Penn State E-cigarette Dependence Index. Associations were evaluated using multinomial logistic regression. RESULTS The prevalence of ever and current e-cigarette use was estimated to be 40.2% (1220/3032) and 29.4% (892/3032), respectively. The prevalence of current e-cigarette use was higher in males compared to females (47.6% vs 14.4%, p<0.001). Relative to cigarette smoking, 40.6% of participants reported that e-cigarettes are less harmful, and 41.8% indicated that e-cigarettes are equally addictive. Among current e-cigarette users (n=892), 84.8% were ascertained to have developed either low, medium, or high dependence. The use of pod-based devices compared to disposable devices was associated with a high dependence level (adjusted odds ratio, AOR=8.56; 95% CI: 4.52-16.22). CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that a large proportion of adults in Kuwait use e-cigarettes, and a considerable proportion of current users have developed dependence. Therefore, such results should alert public health authorities and warrant the development of evidence-based awareness campaigns, policies, and prevention measures to protect and improve the health of people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munairah Alshaibani
- Department of Community Medicine and Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Mays Alajmi
- Department of Community Medicine and Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Noura Alabduljalil
- Department of Community Medicine and Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Hajar Alajmi
- Department of Community Medicine and Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Yousef Alsalem
- Department of Community Medicine and Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Danah Aloqab
- Department of Community Medicine and Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Hamad Alawadhi
- Department of Community Medicine and Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Sara Sayed Ali
- Department of Community Medicine and Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Yaqoub Sharhan
- Department of Community Medicine and Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Ahmed Alzeeny
- Department of Community Medicine and Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Ali H. Ziyab
- Department of Community Medicine and Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
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Al-Dahshan A, Al Muraikhi H, Musa S, Joudeh A, Al Baker W, Selim N, Bougmiza I. Prevalence and predictors of smoking cessation among smokers receiving smoking cessation intervention in primary care in Qatar: a 6-month follow-up study. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1166016. [PMID: 37275499 PMCID: PMC10235512 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1166016] [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: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To estimate the rate and predictors of smoking cessation in smokers attending smoking cessation clinics in primary care settings in Qatar. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 759 smokers who had attended any of the 10 smoking cessation clinics in primary health care centers from January 2019 to June 2020. The sociodemographic, clinical, and smoking-related variables were assessed. Tailored behavioral and pharmacotherapy were delivered, and patients were interviewed at 6 months to estimate the 30-day point prevalence abstinence. To identify independent factors associated with smoking cessation, a multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed. Results The mean age of participants was 40.6 (±11.3), majority being married, Arab and employed, and having a tertiary education. Almost half of the smokers (48.7%) received varenicline alone, 42.6% received NRT, and 31.8% received a combination of both. The selection of drug therapy was based on preferences, experiences, and history of previously encountered adverse effects. The overall 30-day quit rate at 6 months follow-up was 32.4%. About three-quarters (72.5%) of participants had at least one quit attempt and 12.5% had 3 or more attempts. Later age at smoking initiation, lower cigarette consumption at baseline, lower CO concentration at baseline, use of smoking cessation pharmacotherapy, having made fewer quit attempts and non-exposure to secondhand smoke among friends were identified as significant predictors of successful quitting at 6 months. Conclusion The 30-day quit rate at 6 months follow-up (32.4%) is comparable to the worldwide figure. However, further efforts should be made to plan cost-effective tobacco dependence treatment taking into account predictors and at-risk groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayman Al-Dahshan
- Department of Medical Education, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hissa Al Muraikhi
- Department of Preventative Health, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sarah Musa
- Department of Preventative Health, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Anwar Joudeh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Wadha Al Baker
- Department of Preventative Health, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nagah Selim
- Department of Community Medicine, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Iheb Bougmiza
- Department of Community Medicine, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar
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Mahmoud E, Eliwa A, Elsalakawi Y, Al-emadi A, Mahmood F, Al-Qahtani N, Al-Mannai W, Farooqui HH, Zughaier SM. Assessing the risk of cardiovascular diseases in relation to shisha smoking among adults in Qatar: An analytical cross-sectional study. Tob Induc Dis 2023; 21:21. [PMID: 36777291 PMCID: PMC9909683 DOI: 10.18332/tid/156678] [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: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tobacco smoking is a preventable cause of disease and death worldwide. Shisha has become a popular method of smoking tobacco. In Qatar, the prevalence of smoking in 2019 was 25.2%, of which 20.9% was smoking shisha. Shisha smoking is thought to have a harmful effect on the cardiovascular system. The main objective of this study was to understand the relationship between shisha smoking and cardiovascular disease risks. METHODS All data were obtained from the Qatar Biobank (QBB). The study population consisted of 1045 individuals, which included cases defined as participants who had a history of angina, heart attack and/or stroke and their matched healthy controls for age and gender. The measurement of both the exposure and the outcome was done through the survey provided by QBB. A conditional logistic regression model was used to assess the association between smoking and cardiovascular disease (CVD), and adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated after adjusting for covariates. RESULTS After adjusting for hypertension diagnosis, diabetes diagnosis, dyslipidemia diagnosis, abdominal obesity, and sedentary lifestyle, exclusive shisha smokers had 1.65 times higher odds of reporting cardiovascular disease diagnoses compared to non-smokers (95% CI: 0.71-1.91). Dual shisha and cigarette smokers also had 1.47 times higher odds of reporting cardiovascular disease diagnoses compared to non-smokers (95% CI: 0.88-2.45). CVD cases had a younger median age of initial shisha smoking compared to controls (20 years vs 25 years, p=0.003). CONCLUSIONS Shisha smoking was associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. However, this association did not reach the level of statistical significance within this study. A finding to consider that showed strong evidence is the younger age of initial shisha smoking in cases. Further studies are needed to demonstrate the true relationship between shisha smoking and cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elhassan Mahmoud
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ahmed Eliwa
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Yasmin Elsalakawi
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Alghalya Al-emadi
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Fathima Mahmood
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Noof Al-Qahtani
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Wafaa Al-Mannai
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Habib H. Farooqui
- Population Medicine Department, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Susu M. Zughaier
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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Leventakou V, Al Thani M, Sofroniou A, Butt HI, Eltayeb SM, Hakim IA, Thomson C, Nair US. Feasibility and Acceptability of a Telephone-Based Smoking Cessation Intervention for Qatari Residents. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16509. [PMID: 36554389 PMCID: PMC9779462 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192416509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The steady increase in smoking rates has led to a call for wide-reaching and scalable interventions for smoking cessation in Qatar. This study examined the feasibility and acceptability of an evidence-based smoking cessation program delivered by telephone for Qatari residents. A total of 248 participants were recruited through primary care centers and received five weekly scheduled proactive behavioral counseling calls from personnel trained in tobacco cessation and navigation to obtain cessation pharmacotherapy from clinics. Outcomes were assessed at end of treatment (EOT), and 1- and-3-month follow up. The Mann-Whitney test was used to compare the average number of participants recruited per month pre- and post-COVID. We recruited 16 participants/month, the majority (85.5%) attended at least one counselling session, and 95.4% used some of pharmacotherapy. Retention rates were 70% at EOT, 64.4% and 71.7% at 1- and 3-month follow up, respectively; 86% reported being 'extremely satisfied' by the program. Our ITT 7-day point prevalence abstinence was 41.6% at EOT, 38.4% and 39.3% at 1-and 3-month, respectively. The average number of participants recruited per month was significantly higher for pre vs. post-COVID (18.9 vs. 10.0, p-value = 0.02). Average number of participants retained at EOT per recruitment month showed a slight decrease from 8.6 pre- to 8.2 post-COVID; average number who quit smoking at EOT per recruitment month also showed a decrease from 6 to 4.6. The study results indicated that our telephone-based intervention is feasible and acceptable in this population and presents a new treatment model which can be easily disseminated to a broad population of Qatari smokers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Leventakou
- Health Research Governance Department, Ministry of Public Health, Doha P.O. Box 42, Qatar
| | - Mohammed Al Thani
- Public Health Department, Ministry of Public Health, Doha P.O. Box 42, Qatar
| | - Angeliki Sofroniou
- Public Health Department, Ministry of Public Health, Doha P.O. Box 42, Qatar
| | - Hamza I. Butt
- Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Safa M. Eltayeb
- Public Health Department, Ministry of Public Health, Doha P.O. Box 42, Qatar
| | - Iman A. Hakim
- Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Cynthia Thomson
- Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| | - Uma S. Nair
- Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
- College of Nursing, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
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10
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Rashed MHI, Chehab M, Selim N, Alkarbi K, Bougmiza MI. The prevalence and associated factors of shisha use among
smokers attending three primary healthcare centers in Qatar,
2020. Tob Prev Cessat 2022; 8:34. [PMID: 36132981 PMCID: PMC9461141 DOI: 10.18332/tpc/152887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Smoking is one of the most serious health issues. One form of tobacco use, shisha, is prevalent in the Eastern Mediterranean Region. There is a misconception among smokers that waterpipe use poses no harm to human health. In Qatar, the Global Adult Tobacco Survey in 2013 has shown that 3.4% of adults in the country were current waterpipe users. Nevertheless, there remains a scarcity of data on the knowledge and practice of shisha smokers in Qatar. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study across three primary healthcare (PHC) centers in Qatar between September and December 2020. A convenient sampling technique was employed to enroll participants. Upon consent, an interview was conducted to collect data from adult smokers (aged ≥18 years). Descriptive and analytic statistics were used when appropriate. RESULTS A total of 281 individuals participated in this study. Nearly half (48.8%) were current shisha users and almost three-quarters (72.9%) had inadequate knowledge in this regard. In addition, only one-fifth (19.5%) of participants attended smoking cessation clinics at the primary healthcare centers and a quarter (25%) of the respondents managed to quit smoking before relapsing. A significant association was found between the shisha knowledge of participants and their nationality (Qatari), employment status (unemployed), smoking status (current smoker), and duration of smoking. CONCLUSIONS The study results convey a high prevalence of shisha use (47.8%), inadequate shisha knowledge (72.9%), and lack of awareness about available smoking cessation services (46.6%) among the participants. Further research is recommended to generate evidence on the determinants of shisha use and knowledge among the attendees of primary healthcare centers in Qatar.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohamad Chehab
- Community Medicine Residency Program, Medical Education Department, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nagah Selim
- Community Medicine Residency Program, Family and Community Medicine Department, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Khalid Alkarbi
- Operations Department, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohamed I. Bougmiza
- Community Medicine Residency Program, Family and Community Medicine Department, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Family and Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Sousse University, Tunisia
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11
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AlMulla A, Kouyoumjian S, Maisonneuve P, Cheema S, Mamtani R. Waterpipe smoking: Results from a population-based study in
Qatar. Tob Induc Dis 2022; 20:61. [PMID: 35836909 PMCID: PMC9227603 DOI: 10.18332/tid/149907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Waterpipe smoking is common in the Eastern Mediterranean Region and is becoming more prevalent in Qatar. To better plan waterpipe smoking control strategies we aimed to: 1) determine the prevalence of waterpipe smoking and explore its patterns in Qatar; 2) describe the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to smoking behaviors; 3) recognize locations of waterpipe smoking and symptoms experienced during waterpipe sessions; and 4) evaluate the frequency of waterpipe smoking and the initiation age. METHODS We analyzed the data of a 7921 population-based survey of adults aged ≥18 years (nationals and expatriates), conducted in Qatar between March and December 2019. Out of 7105 surveys collected, 6904 were complete and included in the analysis. RESULTS Of the 6904, 570 (8.3%; 95% CI: 7.7–9.0) were waterpipe tobacco smokers, 425 (10.6%) males and 145 (5.1%) females. The highest prevalence of waterpipe smoking was reported among people aged 18–24 years (10.6%). Of the 575 waterpipe smokers, 56.3% (n=324) were exclusive waterpipe smokers. Use of other tobacco products among waterpipe smokers was higher among Qataris (52.3%) than expatriates (37.7%). Waterpipe cafés were the most common location for waterpipe smoking, however, females preferred restaurants; 83.3% reported that waterpipe smoking is harmful, while 39.3% considered that it is less harmful than cigarette smoking. CONCLUSIONS Waterpipe smoking prevalence is considerably high in Qatar, the second form of tobacco used. The formulation of new policies and enforcement of regulatory restrictions on waterpipe smoking are essential to reduce its uptake. Expansion in tobacco cessation services for women and poly-tobacco users is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad AlMulla
- Tobacco Control Center, WHO Collaborating Center for Treating Tobacco Dependence, Department of Medicine, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Silva Kouyoumjian
- Tobacco Control Center, WHO Collaborating Center for Treating Tobacco Dependence, Department of Medicine, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Patrick Maisonneuve
- Unit of Clinical Epidemiology, Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, European Institute of Oncology, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalization and Healthcare, Milan, Italy
| | - Sohaila Cheema
- Institute for Population Health, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ravinder Mamtani
- Institute for Population Health, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
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12
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The association between tobacco use and COVID-19 in Qatar. Prev Med Rep 2022; 28:101832. [PMID: 35607613 PMCID: PMC9116971 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2022.101832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Tobacco smoking prevalence in the total sample was only 11.0% Smokeless tobacco users may be at an increased risk for severe disease. Smoking was not associated with an increased risk of greater disease severity. Increased age and co-morbidities were the most important risk factors for severity. Considering limitations, COVID-19 severity may be affected by other factors.
The effects of smoking on COVID-19 are controversial. Some studies show no link between smoking and severe COVID-19, whereas others demonstrate a significant link. This cross-sectional study aims to determine the prevalence of tobacco use among COVID-19 patients, examine the relationship between tobacco use and hospitalized COVID-19 (non-severe and severe), and quantify its risk factors. A random sample of 7430 COVID-19 patients diagnosed between 27 February-30 May 2020 in Qatar were recruited over the telephone to complete an interviewer-administered questionnaire. The prevalence of tobacco smoking in the total sample was 11.0%, with 12.6% among those quarantined, 5.7% among hospitalized patients, and 2.5% among patients with severe COVID-19. Smokeless tobacco and e-cigarette use were reported by 3.2% and 0.6% of the total sample, respectively. We found a significant lower risk for hospitalization and severity of COVID-19 among current tobacco smokers (p < 0.001) relative to non-smokers (never and ex-smokers). Risk factors significantly related to an increased risk of being hospitalized with COVID-19 were older age (aged 55 + ), being male, non-Qatari, and those with heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, asthma, cancer, and chronic renal disease. Smokeless tobacco use, older age (aged 55 + ), being male, non-Qatari, previously diagnosed with heart disease and diabetes were significant risk factors for severe COVID-19. Our data suggests that only smokeless tobacco users may be at an increased risk for severe disease, yet this requires further investigation as other studies have reported smoking to be associated with an increased risk of greater disease severity.
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Al Thani M, Leventakou V, Sofroniou A, Butt HI, Hakim IA, Thomson C, Nair US. Factors associated with baseline smoking self-efficacy among male Qatari residents enrolled in a quit smoking study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263306. [PMID: 35085368 PMCID: PMC8794180 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Smoking self-efficacy, described as confidence in one’s ability to abstain from smoking in high-risk situations is a key predictor in cessation outcomes; however, there is a dearth of research on factors that influence self-efficacy surrounding smoking behavior. This study examines factors associated with baseline self-efficacy among treatment seeking participants enrolled in a pilot feasibility smoking cessation study. Participants (n = 247) were daily male smokers, residents of Doha in Qatar (18–60 years) who were enrolled in a telephone-based smoking cessation study. Baseline assessments included self-efficacy, home smoking rules, socio-demographic variables, smoking history, and psychosocial characteristics. Factors associated with self-efficacy were assessed using multiple linear regression analysis. Results showed that after controlling for relevant variables, number of cigarettes smoked ( β^ = -0.22; 95% CI: -0.37, -0.06), having at least one quit attempt in the past year ( β^ = 2.30; 95% CI: 0.27, 4.35), and reporting a complete home smoking ban ( β^ = 3.13; 95% CI: 0.56, 5.70) were significantly associated with higher self-efficacy to quit smoking. These results provide data-driven indication of several key variables that can be targeted to increase smoking self-efficacy in this understudied population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vasiliki Leventakou
- Health Research Governance Department, Ministry of Public Health, Doha, Qatar
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Hamza I. Butt
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Department, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Iman A. Hakim
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Department, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Cynthia Thomson
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Department, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Uma S. Nair
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Department, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States of America
- Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States of America
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Alkeilani AA, Khalil AA, Azzan AM, Al-Khal NA, Al-Nabit NH, Talab OM, Al-Hajri RA, Rahmoon SM, Ashour AA, Gupta I, Al Moustafa AE. Association between waterpipe smoking and obesity: Population-based study in Qatar. Tob Induc Dis 2022; 20:06. [PMID: 35125989 PMCID: PMC8788307 DOI: 10.18332/tid/143878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Over the past decade obesity prevalence has been increasing rapidly in the Gulf region (GR) including Qatar, becoming one of the major health issues in the region. Concomitantly, waterpipe (WP) smoking is increasing worldwide especially in the GR, and although the effect of cigarette smoking on body weight is well-established, studies indicating an association between WP smoking and obesity are scarce. Thus, we explored the association between WP smoking and obesity in comparison with cigarette smokers and healthy population in Qatar. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional study using data from Qatar Biobank and analyzed anthropometric measurements among 879 adults (aged 18-65 years) that included WP smokers, cigarette smokers, dual smokers and never smokers. Body composition was measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis and reported as lean mass, fat mass, and body fat percentage. RESULTS Overall, 12% (n=108) were WP smokers, 22% (n=196) were cigarette smokers, 9% (n=77) smoked both WP and cigarettes and 57% (n=498) were never smokers. Age, sex, history of diabetes, and hypertension, in addition to nationality were considered as confounding factors. Our analysis revealed that WP smokers had a significantly higher BMI (kg/m2) and fat mass when compared with cigarette smokers (p<0.05). Moreover, compared to cigarette smoking, WP smoking had a higher significant effect on BMI (β=3.8, SE=0.38; and β=5.5, SE=0.46; respectively), and fat mass (β=5.1, SE=0.79; and β=9.0, SE=0.97; respectively). However, WP users were similar to never-smokers in terms of body fat percent. CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate that compared to never smokers, daily WP users have higher BMI and fat mass, and are likely to be obese.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Afaf M. Azzan
- College of Medicine, University Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Noof A. Al-Khal
- College of Medicine, University Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Noora H. Al-Nabit
- College of Medicine, University Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Omar M. Talab
- College of Medicine, University Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Rahaf A. Al-Hajri
- College of Medicine, University Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Anas A. Ashour
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ishita Gupta
- College of Medicine, University Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Unit, Qatar University Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ala-Eddin Al Moustafa
- College of Medicine, University Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research Unit, Qatar University Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Biomedical Research Centre, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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Zolezzi M, Al-Rawi S, Eltorki Y. An Exploration of Smoking Patterns Among People with Serious Mental Illness Attending an Outpatient Clinic in Qatar. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2022; 18:2847-2854. [PMID: 36518535 PMCID: PMC9743978 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s385970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have shown that tobacco use is exceptionally high in people affected with serious mental illness (SMI). Many countries worldwide have observed a decrease in the prevalence of tobacco smoking; however, the smoking rates among people with SMI have declined much less than in those without mental illness. To date, no nationally representative data have examined the smoking patterns or the sociocultural factors that influence smoking among SMI people in Qatar. METHODS A retrospective medical chart review was conducted to collect patient demographics, psychiatric and medical comorbidities, medications, the most recently documented smoking status and if on tobacco cessation treatment. A descriptive and inferential analysis of the data was performed. RESULTS Of 346 patients included in the cohort, 196 (56.6%) had their smoking status documented, of which 72 (36.7%) were "currently smoking." Significantly more males than females were "current smokers" (62.9% versus 15.0%, respectively, p < 0.001). Significantly more patients with psychotic disorders than those with any other SMI were "current smokers", and this difference was statistically significant (p = 0.006). Positive and significant associations with current smoking were found for the male gender, psychotic disorders, and high levels (≥6.2 mmol/L) of total cholesterol. Only 12 (16.7%) of current smokers were receiving smoking cessation treatment. CONCLUSION More than half of a sample of people with SMI attending outpatient psychiatric services in Qatar had documented smoking status. Still, only a few current smokers were on smoking cessation treatment. Efforts are needed to implement smoking cessation strategies in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Zolezzi
- Clinical Pharmacy and Practice, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Safa Al-Rawi
- Al Wakrah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Doha, Qatar
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Al-Kuwari MG, Al-Abdulla SA, Abdulla MY, Haj Bakri A, Mustafa Mohammed A, Chettiyam Kandy M, Patterson A, Illiayaraja Krishnan J. Epidemiological health assessment in primary healthcare in the State of Qatar- 2019. Qatar Med J 2021; 2021:57. [PMID: 34745910 PMCID: PMC8555676 DOI: 10.5339/qmj.2021.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the public sector in Qatar, the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) is the major provider of primary healthcare services to families. Therefore, the PHCC conducted the first epidemiological health assessment to understand the burden of diseases and their subsequent risk factors impacting its registered population, to design better services, implement it and allocate resources to respond to the population health needs. METHODS A cross-sectional study design was adopted among all PHCC registered populations between September 1, 2018, and August 31, 2019. The study target population was all persons residing in Qatar aged 0+ years and registered at the 27 health centers affiliated with the PHCC; excluding patients with an expired residence permit on August 31, 2019, and craft male workers were provided their primary healthcare services at the Qatar Red Crescent health facilities. The data were extracted from patients' electronic medical records (EMR). RESULTS The burden of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia were the highest among the population of the central region at 13.9%, 15.7%, and 11.1%, respectively. Tobacco consumption among males was higher than females and ranged from 25.4% to 27.8%, with the highest rate in the northern region. Obesity rates ranged between 34.7% and 37.0% among the total population registered with the lowest rate in the central region, while 39.9% of females in the northern region had a body mass index above 30 kg/m2. Exclusive breastfeeding at 6 months was significantly lower than that at 4 months across all regions. Children in the northern region had the highest rate of overweight/obesity based on Z-scores. The western region population had the highest number of communicable diseases notifications. CONCLUSION Understanding the patterns of disease in the local population will enable the PHCC to plan a clear set of services that meet the population's health needs, which include tailored health education and promotion components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ghaith Al-Kuwari
- Directorate of Strategy Planning and Health Intelligence, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar. E-mail:
| | | | - Maha Yousef Abdulla
- Directorate of Strategy Planning and Health Intelligence, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar. E-mail:
| | - Ahmad Haj Bakri
- Directorate of Strategy Planning and Health Intelligence, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar. E-mail:
| | - Azza Mustafa Mohammed
- Directorate of Strategy Planning and Health Intelligence, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar. E-mail:
| | - Mujeeb Chettiyam Kandy
- Directorate of Strategy Planning and Health Intelligence, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar. E-mail:
| | - Amanda Patterson
- Directorate of Strategy Planning and Health Intelligence, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar. E-mail:
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AlMulla A, Kouyoumjian SP. Telephone counseling and quitline service: An opportunity for tobacco use cessation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Qatar Med J 2021; 2021:25. [PMID: 34405091 PMCID: PMC8353532 DOI: 10.5339/qmj.2021.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad AlMulla
- , Tobacco Control Center, WHO Collaborative Center, Department of Medicine, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Hamad Medical Corporation
| | - Silva P Kouyoumjian
- , Tobacco Control Center, WHO Collaborative Center, Department of Medicine, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Hamad Medical Corporation
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