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A program to help major league baseball players quit using spit tobacco
J C Greene1, M M Walsh, C Masouredis
1School of Dentistry, University of California, San Francisco 94143-0430.
Summary
Few methods exist to help people quit smokeless tobacco (ST). A pilot study found that dental interventions, including oral exams and counseling, may effectively reduce ST use in professional baseball players.
Area of Science:
- Oral Health
- Tobacco Cessation
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Smokeless tobacco (ST) use is prevalent in professional baseball.
- Limited research exists on effective ST cessation methods.
- Dental professionals can play a role in tobacco cessation interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of two dental-oriented interventions for ST cessation.
- To assess the feasibility of implementing these interventions in professional baseball.
Main Methods:
- Pilot study involving major league baseball players.
- Interventions included oral examinations and cessation advice.
- Behavioral counseling was integrated into the interventions.
Main Results:
- Preliminary findings indicate a decrease in ST use among participants.
- The dental-oriented approach showed promise for cessation.
- Further research is warranted to confirm efficacy.
Conclusions:
- Dental interventions combined with behavioral counseling may be effective for ST cessation in athletes.
- This approach offers a novel strategy for tobacco control in professional sports.