Does capacity building on tobacco control change perception and knowledge among public health professionals? A case study from Puducherry, India

Abstract

Background: The medical and public health personnel, especially in low- and middle-income countries, are not adequately equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills required to curb the menace of tobacco epidemic. Therefore, this study aims to assess the effectiveness of a tobacco control workshop conducted for doctors, postgraduate medical and master of public health students with a view to possibly integrate tobacco course in medical and public health curricula.Methodology: The contents of the workshop were finalized after an extensive review by a panel of experts in the field of tobacco control in India. The participants of the workshop were provided training in a learner-centered mode by an expert panel of facilitators from varied backgrounds with ample of experience and expertise in the field of tobacco control. At the end of 5-day long workshop, the participant's knowledge, attitude, practice with respect to tobacco control, and contents and comfort of the workshop were assessed using a retro-pre questionnaire.Results: There was statistically significant improvement in the knowledge, attitude, and practice domains related to tobacco control. Around 40%–55% participants were able to appreciate that health-care personnel have a definite role in curbing the menace of tobacco epidemic. Around one-third of the participants felt that they would be able to enquire about tobacco use as part of history taking, counsel using 5A's strategy, and advice to quit tobacco. Nearly 80% participants appreciated the appropriateness of the contents of the workshop and almost all were satisfied with faculty–participants interaction and methods of delivering various concepts for tobacco control.Conclusion: Use of hands-on training with practical sessions, backed by structured modules can help in improving knowledge, attitude, and skills of the health professionals toward tobacco control.