[Smoking among physicians and measures for its control].

Area of Science:

• Medical Sociology
• Public Health
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Physician smoking remains a significant public health concern.
• Understanding physician smoking habits is crucial for developing effective interventions.
• Long-term smoking among healthcare professionals impacts patient care and professional conduct.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the reasons behind smoking among physicians in Perm.
• To assess physicians' opinions on eradicating smoking within the medical community.
• To identify effective strategies for smoking cessation among healthcare workers.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire survey was administered to 107 physician smokers in Perm.
• Data collected included smoking initiation, duration, workplace smoking habits, and cessation attitudes.
• Analysis focused on identifying patterns and perceived barriers/solutions to smoking cessation.

Main Results:

• 83% of physicians started smoking before medical school, with many having over 30 years of experience.
• 14.9% began smoking post-graduation, aware of health risks.
• Nearly all physicians smoke at their workplace, with 14% smoking in front of patients.
• Over half reported adverse health effects, yet only 13 physicians wished to quit.
• Prohibitive measures were deemed most effective, though currently perceived as formal.

Conclusions:

• Physician smoking is a deeply ingrained habit, often starting early in life.
• Current anti-smoking measures in healthcare settings may be insufficient or formally applied.
• A dual approach combining personal responsibility, enhanced anti-smoking propaganda for students, and compulsory measures is recommended.
• Physicians' awareness of health risks does not always translate to cessation, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.