Smoking cessation referrals in optometric practice: a canadian pilot study
Ryan David Kennedy1, Marlee M Spafford, Annette S H Schultz
1Propel Centre for Population Health Impact, Faculty Applied Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. ryan.david.kennedy@gmail.com
Summary
Optometrists recognize smoking risks for eye health but offer limited tobacco cessation support. Integrating them into national networks offers opportunities to enhance patient care and public health.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Ophthalmology
- Health Policy
Background:
- Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for various eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
- Optometrists possess unique patient access and can leverage patient concerns about vision to motivate smoking cessation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore optometrists' attitudes towards addressing tobacco use in their practice.
- To identify opportunities for integrating optometrists into Canada's national tobacco cessation network.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive qualitative design was employed.
- Five focus groups were conducted with 29 participants, including practicing optometrists and optometry students.
- Barriers, rationales, and opportunities related to tobacco cessation practices were identified.
Main Results:
- Optometrists understand the link between smoking and eye diseases but inconsistently address patient smoking behaviors.
- Limited financial incentives, training, resources, and time hinder optometrists' involvement in direct tobacco cessation support.
- Key opportunities for integration include optometrists' patient access and patients' fear of blindness.
Conclusions:
- Optometrists can serve as valuable partners in a multidisciplinary tobacco cessation network.
- Findings will inform a national survey on Canadian optometrists' practices in tobacco prevention and cessation support.
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