Self-reported smoking cessation activities among Swiss primary care physicians

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Clinical Practice
• Smoking Cessation

Background:

• Evidence-based smoking cessation interventions include individual counseling, pharmacotherapy, and group therapy.
• Acupuncture, hypnosis, and relaxation lack demonstrated efficacy for smoking cessation.
• Self-help materials may offer limited benefits in smoking cessation efforts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate current clinical practices of physicians concerning smokers motivated to quit.
• To assess the adoption of various smoking cessation interventions by primary care physicians.

Main Methods:

• A survey of 3385 Swiss primary care physicians assessed self-reported use of nine smoking cessation interventions.
• A scoring system was used, awarding points for interventions with demonstrated efficacy (nicotine replacement therapy, bupropion, counseling, group therapy, cessation specialist).
• Multivariable logistic analysis identified factors associated with a "good practice score" (≥2).

Main Results:

• The response rate was 55%, with respondents predominantly male, over 40, and from urban areas.
• Most physicians prescribed nicotine replacement therapy (84%), bupropion (65%), or provided counseling (70%).
• Attending a smoking cessation training program was the only significant predictor of a good practice score (OR: 6.24).

Conclusions:

• The majority of physicians employ recommended smoking cessation interventions.
• There is potential for improvement in clinical practice regarding smoking cessation support.
• Implementing evidence-based smoking cessation training programs can enhance physician effectiveness.