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Smoking habits among physicians in two Gulf countries
A Bener1, J Gomes, J A Anderson
1Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, UAE University, Al-Ain.
Journal of the Royal Society of Health
|December 1, 1993
Summary
Physician smoking rates in Kuwait and UAE show higher prevalence in males than females. Despite awareness of health risks, less than half of physicians counsel patients on smoking cessation.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Medical Professionalism
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Physician smoking habits are a critical public health concern, influencing patient care and professional example.
- Understanding smoking prevalence among physicians in the Middle East is essential for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of smoking among physicians in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
- To identify factors influencing non-smoking physicians and their awareness of smoking-related health risks.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional surveys conducted in Kuwait (1990) and UAE (1991-1992).
- Questionnaires administered to physicians to gather data on smoking status, demographics, and attitudes.
- Data analyzed to determine smoking prevalence by gender and identify reasons for non-smoking.
Main Results:
- In Kuwait, 45.3% of male physicians and 16% of female physicians were current smokers.
- In UAE, 43.9% of male physicians and 8.2% of female physicians were current smokers.
- A majority of physicians in both countries recognized smoking as hazardous, yet less than 50% routinely advised smoking patients.
Conclusions:
- Physician smoking rates, particularly among males, remain a significant issue in Kuwait and UAE.
- Physicians' awareness of smoking hazards does not consistently translate into patient counseling.
- Interventions targeting physician smoking cessation and enhanced patient education are warranted.