Maryland dentists' attitudes regarding tobacco issues

Due to increased national interest in tobacco intervention roles for oral health professionals, a survey of Maryland dentists' attitudes toward tobacco issues was conducted. A convenience sample of 700 members of the Maryland State Dental Association was drawn from the total membership list (N = 2200). A 30% response rate was obtained. Subjects were mailed a twelve-item questionnaire that elicited primarily attitudinal information. Results revealed that 54.3% of the subjects never smoked, 39% formerly smoked and 6.1% currently smoke. Smoking behavior was associated with numerous attitudinal variables including dentistry's role in promoting tobacco-use cessation. Relatively few of the respondents were aware of federal initiatives regarding the oral health professions' roles in intervention. Less than half viewed tobacco-use cessation interventions as a practice builder, yet 82.1% believe cessation advice is the dentist's responsibility. Respondents' interest in obtaining free training in tobacco-use interventions was positive and was significantly related to several attitudinal variables. Dentists in Maryland appear to appreciate their role in tobacco-use interventions at both the clinical and community levels. However, they exhibit ambivalence regarding the economic value of office interventions and the need for formalized training. Maryland dentists also need to be apprised of federal initiatives concerning tobacco use interventions.