Awareness and intervention approaches related to smoking addiction among child and adolescent psychiatrists

AIM: To determine the attitudes of child and adolescent psychiatrists working in different institutions throughout Turkey towards smoking addiction and intervention steps. MATERIAL AND METHODS: An information form assessing physicians’ 5As approach was established considering the studies included in the literature, and this form was applied to physicians working in the area of child psychiatry by way of e-mail and phone. RESULTS: Although most physicians (52.5%) asked about smoking status, which is included in the first step in the 5As approach used in smoking cessation, it was observed that they implemented further steps of the 5As with gradually decreasing rates in our study. Only 15% of the physicians performed follow-up in smoking cessation treatment. CONCLUSION: Physicians who work with pediatric and adolescent patients in Turkey have low levels of awareness about smoking addiction and they do not feel competent. Considering that tobacco and related addictions are gradually increasing in children and adolescents, physicians must receive training in the area of smoking cessation methods and start practicing these methods. It was thought that organizing smoking cessation training for physicians would contribute positively to the treatment of patients.