Smoking habits and attitude toward smoking cessation interventions among healthcare professionals in Pakistan

BACKGROUND: Tobacco smoking is considered as the second main cause of increased mortality rate and one of the major preventable causes of cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases worldwide. Although the damages caused by smoking are known, the prevalence of smoking is increasing among healthcare professionals (HCPs). Increased smoking rates among HCPs may compromise the ability to effectively counsel patients who are addicted to smoking. The purpose of this study was to assess the smoking habits and attitude toward smoking cessation interventions among HCPs in Pakistan. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used. A prevalidated semi-structured question developed by the University of Arizona was used. The sample size was calculated to be 382 with 95% confidence interval and 5% level of error. Data were cleaned, coded, and analyzed statistically using SPSS 21. Chi-square test (P ≥ 0.05) was used to find association among different variables. RESULTS: The results of the study showed that a majority of the HCPs were smokers (57.6%, n = 220). Use of nicotine patches and other cessation medications, educational programs, and discussion with other healthcare providers were most effective methods for quitting smoking. Significant association (P < 0.05) was found among smokers and nonsmokers regarding self-respect and feeling of loneliness. CONCLUSION: The study concluded that a majority of the HCPs in twin cities were smokers and smoke more than five cigarettes a day. Training programs should be designed and implemented for HCPs to reduce the rate of tobacco smoking.