Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Tobacco Cessation Counselling among Dental Professionals in Maharashtra- An Opportunity for Health Promotion

Abstract

Background: Patients can have a better prognosis and quality of life if tobacco-related lesions in the oral cavity are detected early. These oral symptoms can be identified and isolated with the aid of a dental check-up. Tobacco use habits can be intervened in and tobacco cessation counselling can be provided by trained oral health specialists. Hence the aim of the present study was to assess knowledge, attitude, and behaviour of dental professionals towards tobacco cessation counselling for tobacco users in Maharashtra, India. Methodology: A self- administered questionnaire-based survey was sent to members of Indian Dental Association (IDA) through email. The results were analysed using statistical programme SPSS 25.0 software. Results: 78% of the participants had not undergone tobacco counselling training. 83% of participants had not been trained to give psychological support to patients who were attempting to quit smoking. Nicotine Replacement Therapy was mentioned by 86% of those polled. To a large extent, 54% of participants think it is their obligation to give cigarette cessation counselling. Only 33% of participants felt confidence in their abilities to provide appropriate smoke cessation advice. Only 38% of participants were hopeful about their patients’ abilities to quit smoking. 38% of participants inquire about their patients’ tobacco usage, and 18% provide extensive tobacco cessation counselling. Conclusion: Tobacco intervention by dentists is an excellent strategy to lower the cost of tobacco-related curative and palliative care. As a result, more dentists should provide their patients tobacco cessation counselling. Dental health practitioners should receive comprehensive training in these treatments so that they can deliver appropriate services to tobacco users.