Degree Of Nicotine Dependence Research Articles

Similarities and differences between internet addiction and nicotine dependence —— motivation network

BackgroundMotivation, encompassing positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, and compulsion, significantly influences addictive behavior. Yet, there is little research available on these motivational dimensions and their connection to addictive behavior. This study addressed these gaps by investigating motivation in internet addiction (IA) and nicotine dependence (ND). MethodsCross-sectional data from 472 nicotine users (NUs) and 1004 internet users (IUS) were examined using the Chinese version of the Habit, Reward, and Fear Scale. The Glasso network method was used to estimate the networks, and four interrelated centrality measures were calculated. ResultsIUs exhibited significantly lower total addiction motivation scores, as well as lower reward and fear dimensions, compared to NUs. In the Severity-Motivation Network, reward and fear motivations had the highest centrality. The habitual motivation of NUs demonstrated the highest closeness and betweenness centrality, showing a strong positive correlation with the degree of ND. The fear motivation of IUs exhibited a strong positive correlation with the degree of IA. In the symptom-motivation network, reward and habit nodes displayed higher centrality in NUs, whereas reward and fear nodes were most central for IUs. ConclusionsThe findings indicate that reward, fear, and habit motivations are key factors in explaining behaviors associated with nicotine use and internet use. The unique positions of habitual motivation in ND and fear motivation in IA provide new perspectives for understanding addictive behaviors. These should be considered key motivational targets for clinicians to address.

Nicotine Dependency Levels Among Adult Electronic Cigarette Smokers in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study.

Electronic cigarettes (ECs) are a recent method to deliver nicotine with less harmful effects than traditional cigarettes. Studying nicotine dependence in adult EC users is a crucial area, but few measures are available to evaluate nicotine dependence induced by EC. Our study aims to estimate the levels of nicotine dependency among adult EC smokers using a modified Fagerström Test of Nicotine Dependence (e-FTND) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and to identify EC-associated sociodemographic and smoking-related factors affecting nicotine dependency. An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on adults 18 years of age and older in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from December 2023 to March 2024. Data were collected from the participants using a pre-tested structured self-administered questionnaire, and nicotine dependence was assessed using the modified e-FTND. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, mean, and standard deviation were applied. Chi-square was used to assess the association between categorical variables. Ordinal regression was used to predict the nicotine dependency levels with different variables. A total of 344 participants were included in the study. The mean e-FTND score for EC users was 4.14 ± 2.45. Females had a lower likelihood of experiencing higher dependence compared to males (OR = 0.52, 95% CI: 0.32, 0.85). Using ECs for more than three years was associated with higher odds of increased dependence (OR = 3.18, 95% CI: 1.28, 7.98; p < 0.001). The use of Pod system devices lowered the odds of developing high nicotine dependence (OR = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.13, 0.75; p = 0.01) compared to Iqos device users, while mechanical Mod device users exhibited a trend towards higher dependence, although it was not statistically significant. Nicotine concentration in ECs had a significant impact on the degree of nicotine dependence. Higher concentrations were associated with increased odds of higher dependence (12-18 mg: OR = 3.26, 95% CI: 1.55, 6.91; >18 mg: OR = 4.53, 95% CI: 2.37, 8.75; p < 0.001). Most exclusive EC users in the study developed a moderate nicotine dependence level. The EC device type and nicotine concentration were significant drivers of nicotine dependence. Additionally, the personal characteristics of the users, such as male gender and duration of use, were associated with a higher risk of dependence. An in-depth understanding of the magnitude of nicotine dependence among EC users will enhance the opportunity for tailored health-enhancing interventions and policies.

Studying the relationship between the degree of nicotine dependence and smoking duration in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

An analysis of the probability of an increase in the degree of nicotine dependence from continuous smok ing duration has been made. Nicorette has been proposed as a therapy for nicotine addiction. It has been found that the formation of nicotine dependence occurs along with an increase in the continuous smoking duration, and the adherence to smoking is higher in patients with low degrees of nicotine addiction in young age groups.

НИКОТИНОВАЯ ЗАВИСИМОСТЬ И ГОРМОНАЛЬНЫЙ ДИСБАЛАНС У БЕРЕМЕННЫХ КУРИЛЬЩИЦ С РАЗНОЙ СТЕПЕНЬЮ ТЯЖЕСТИ ХОБЛ

Introduction. The relationship between the degree of nicotine addiction and the functional state of the thyroid gland, the adrenocorticotropic hormone-cortisol system and hormone imbalance in pregnant women smokers with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was studied. Aim. The aim of the study was to identify and evaluate the relationship between the degree of nicotine dependence and hormonal imbalance of the thyroid gland, cortisol and progesterone in pregnant smokers with varying degrees of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease severity. Material and methods. The study is based on the results of studying changes in blood hormone indicators in 107 smoking women with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and 136 non-smoking women in different trimesters of pregnancy observed in the antenatal clinic. The control group consisted of healthy non-smoking patients. The diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was made based on the clinical recommendations of the Russian Respiratory Society (2021). The reliability of the results was evaluated using parametric statistics methods. The data obtained were processed using the Statistica 10 program, Microsoft Excel 2010. Results and discussion. The presented data revealed the presence in smokers of a statistically significant and very close relationship between the degree of nicotine dependence and the indicators of the imbalance of the hormones studied in all trimesters of pregnancy, with maximum values in the third trimester.This is due to the fact that it is in the third trimester of pregnancy that the maximum increase in the indicators of all studied hormones occurs, even if at the initial stage of pregnancy the indicator could be less than the lower limit of the reference interval, as in the case of thyroid-stimulating hormone.Conclusion. Nicotine addiction creates environment for the development of endocrine imbalance of thyroid hormones, adrenocorticotropic hormone, cortisol and progesterone.

Nicotine dependence and visceral adiposity as risk factors for the development and severity of carotid artery stenosis.

Nicotine dependence (ND) and visceral adiposity are emerging as independent risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, including carotid artery stenosis (CAS). This study aimed to determine the relationship between ND and the contribution of abdominal fat to the onset of CAS, which is indicated by a luminal narrowing of at least 60% as determined by duplex and/or Doppler ultrasound. We prospectively collected data from 60 patients with CAS and 60 age- and gender-matched healthy subjects. The Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND), a common research tool, was used in the study. The original questionnaire was designed to gather social and demographic data. Anthropometric measurements, visceral adiposity index (VAI), and lipid accumulation products (LAP) were used to assess obesity. Most patients showed a high or mild-moderate degree of ND: 46.67% and 35%, respectively. The median visceral adiposity index (VAI) and lipid accumulation product (LAP) in patients was 3.92 and 32.83, respectively. Prolonged smoking duration, increased intensity, and high ND are hallmarks of CAS patients.

The first nicotine product tried is associated with current multiple nicotine product use and nicotine dependence among a nationally representative sample of U.S. youths

This study examines the demographic factors associated with youths' first product tried (i.e., cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, hookah, or smokeless tobacco). This study also evaluates whether the first product tried is associated with future nicotine product use (i.e., no use, single product use, and multiple product use) and nicotine dependence. Participants were 1999 youths (ages 12–17 years) who had ever tried a nicotine product and completed the Population Assessment of Tobacco Health study's Wave 1 (2013–2014) and Wave 4 (2016–2018) assessments. Two separate multinomial logistic regression models examined the association between 1) demographic factors and the first product tried at Wave 1 and 2) the first product tried at Wave 1 and past-30-day product use status at Wave 4. A two-part multivariable model examined the association between the first product tried and nicotine dependence, with part 1 modeling the presence (or absence) of any symptom of dependence and part 2 modeling the degree of dependence among those with any symptom of dependence. The first product tried was associated with sex, race, urbanicity, and parent education. First trying smokeless tobacco (vs. e-cigarettes) was associated with a greater likelihood of multiple product use (vs. no use and vs. single product use). Regarding the degree of nicotine dependence (n = 713), first trying smokeless tobacco (vs. e-cigarettes) was associated with higher nicotine dependence scores among those with any symptom of dependence. Youths who first try smokeless tobacco (vs. e-cigarettes) may be at higher risk for future multiple product use and more symptoms nicotine dependence. Research should explore tailored interventions for smokeless tobacco users.

Does combined training of biofeedback and neurofeedback affect smoking status, behavior, and longitudinal brain plasticity?

Introduction: Investigations of biofeedback (BF) and neurofeedback (NF) training for nicotine addiction have been long documented to lead to positive gains in smoking status, behavior and to changes in brain activity. We aimed to: (a) evaluate a multi-visit combined BF/NF intervention as an alternative smoking cessation approach, (b) validate training-induced feedback learning, and (c) document effects on resting-state functional connectivity networks (rsFCN); considering gender and degree of nicotine dependence in a longitudinal design. Methods: We analyzed clinical, behavioral, and electrophysiological data from 17 smokers who completed five BF and 20 NF sessions and three evaluation stages. Possible neuroplastic effects were explored comparing whole-brain rsFCN by phase-lag index (PLI) for different brain rhythms. PLI connections with significant change across time were investigated according to different resting-state networks (RSNs). Results: Improvements in smoking status were observed as exhaled carbon monoxide levels, Total Oxidative Stress, and Fageström scores decreased while Vitamin E levels increased across time. BF/NF promoted gains in anxiety, self-esteem, and several aspects of cognitive performance. BF learning in temperature enhancement was observed within sessions. NF learning in theta/alpha ratio increase was achieved across baselines and within sessions. PLI network connections significantly changed across time mainly between or within visual, default mode and frontoparietal networks in theta and alpha rhythms, while beta band RSNs mostly changed significantly after BF sessions. Discussion: Combined BF/NF training positively affects the clinical and behavioral status of smokers, displays benefit in smoking harm reduction, plays a neuroprotective role, leads to learning effects and to positive reorganization of RSNs across time. Clinical Trial Registration: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02991781.

The degree of nicotine dependence among users of different tobacco and nicotine products in Madinah City, Saudi Arabia.

Nicotine addiction has many consequences. The World Health Organization has classified nicotine dependence as a disorder of substance use. This study aimed to assess the dependence in users of different tobacco and/or nicotine-containing products (TNPs). This analytical, cross-sectional study involved 211 TNP users in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. The data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire that consisted of two main sections. The first section included sociodemographic domain, TNP status domain, and the Stages of Change model domain. The second section of the instrument included the ABOUT dependence construct comprising 12 items. Independent t-test, analysis of variance, and correlation analysis were used to assess the relationship between the study variables. Most users of TNPs exclusively used tobacco cigarettes (53.1%). Total dependence score was significantly associated with gender, marital status, age group, monthly income, nicotine concentration in electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) liquid, and the number of cigarettes smoked per day (P < 0.05). Total dependence score was correlated with the duration of TNP usage (r = 0.24, P < 0.001), Switching attempts to another TNP (r = 0.16, P = 0.020), attempts of quitting TNPs (r = 0.25, P < 0.001), and willingness to quit (r = -0.37, P < 0.001). Dependence was associated with gender, marital status, age group, monthly income, nicotine concentration in e-cigarette liquid, and the number of cigarettes smoked per day. It was also associated with duration of TNP usage, Switching attempts to another TNP, attempts of quitting TNPs and the willingness to quit.

Acute pain after digital crushing and nicotine intoxication. Cigarettes are always a false friend. A prospective study

BackgroundNicotine addiction is a public health problem. Our hypothesis was that the degree of nicotine dependence is positively correlated with the perceived intensity of acute pain. Materials and methodsA single-center prospective comparative observational study was conducted from 2019 to 2021. Patients included presented distal phalanx extra-articular trauma of less than 24hours’ progression. We compared a group of smokers with a group of non-smokers. A Digital Pain Scale (DPS) was assessed at time of trauma, at first consultation, and once a day until the fifth day post-trauma. A Fagerström test was performed. The primary endpoints were the correlation between dependence and DPS and the correlation between the amount of tobacco consumed and DPS. The secondary endpoints were analgesic consumption according to Fagerström, DPS and tobacco consumption. ResultsSixty-seven patients were included: 26 smokers, 41 non-smokers. No significant correlation was found between dependence level or amount of tobacco used and DPS. Consumption of level II analgesics was significantly 2-fold higher in the smoking group on the second, third and fifth day: respectively, 2.15 tablets versus 1.22 (p=0.02), 1.27 versus 0.49 (p=0.01), and 0.69 versus 0.20 (p=0.04). ConclusionPatients who smoke are exposed to more frequent and more intense pain and consume more palliative painkillers. Level of evidenceIIB; exposed vs. non-exposed cohort.

Study on the effects of combined tea drinking and mental activity after dinner on smokers in China.

INTRODUCTIONCigarette and tobacco use is a leading cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and other malignant tumors. In China, people prefer to engage in mental activities (gambling, overtime work, playing video games, or other mental activities) on the weekends or during spare time, especially in the evening before they prepare for bed. In China, smokers frequently consume tea while smoking. The relationship between smokers who consume tea, engage in mental activities after dinner, or both (drinking tea and engaging in cognitive activities after dinner together), and daily cigarette smoking or nicotine addiction must be clarified.METHODSA total of 438 smokers were included in the study. Age, gender, body mass index (BMI), smoking habits, Fagerström test for nicotine dependence scores, and behaviors, were recorded. The study excluded smokers with a Fagerström score <1 or with a mental disorder diagnosis. The smokers were divided into four groups based on their behaviors: those who did not drink tea, did not engage in mental activities after dinner, those who drank tea only, those who engaged in mental activities only, and those who engaged in both.RESULTSOnly drinking tea or doing mental activities after dinner cannot increase cigarettes per day (22.20 ± 10.143 vs 23.49 ± 11.966, p=0.362; 22.20 ± 10.143 vs 22.66 ± 1.192, p=0.750) or FTND scores [6.0 (4.0; 7.0) vs 6.0 (4.0; 7.75), p=0.941; 6.0 (4.0; 7.0) vs 6.0 (4.25; 7.75), p=0.980]. People who drink tea and engage in mental activities after dinner smoke more (22.20 ± 10.143 vs 30.75 ± 17.264, p<0.0001) and have higher nicotine dependence levels [6.0 (4.0; 7.0) vs 7.0 (5.0; 8.0), p=0.015].CONCLUSIONSThe consumption of tea or a mental activity after dinner is not associated with daily smoking or nicotine dependence. There is an association between the combined behaviors (tea drinking and mental activity after dinner) and the daily consumption of cigarettes, and the degree of nicotine dependence.

CHRNA5 rs16969968 and CHRNA3 rs578776 polymorphisms are associated with multiple nicotine dependence phenotypes in Bangladeshi smokers

BackgroundA recent study has identified the role of CHRNA5-A3-B4 gene cluster variants rs16969968 and rs578776 of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) on smoking status in Bengali ethnicity. The aim of the current study was to investigate whether these rs16969968-rs578776-rs11072768 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of CHRNA5-A3-B4 gene cluster were associated with nicotine dependence (ND) and related phenotypes. MethodsThe Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND) and Cigarette Dependence Scale (CDS-12) were used to assess the degree of ND, and genotyping was done using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method on a cohort of 129 male smokers participating in a structured questionnaire-based survey. ResultsSmokers with AA genotype of CHRNA5 rs16969968 SNP were at significantly increased risk of developing ND compared to its wild type variant with odds ratio (ORs) of 1.20 (FTND: 95% CI 0.25–5.37, p = 0.253) and 2.48 (CDS-12: 95% CI 0.46–13.26, p = 0.081), respectively. Conversely, smokers with AA genotype of CHRNA3 rs578776 variant had a strong protective effect against ND development (ORs = 0.27, 95% CI 0.09–0.80, p = 0.076). There was no such link reported in CHRNB4 rs11072768 variant carriers. Similarly, G-A/G-A diplotype of rs16969968_rs578776 variants was discovered to be a protective factor against ND. Moreover, demographic features such as age, occupation and dwelling status were found to be significantly associated with ND. ConclusionTaken together, CHRNA5-A3-B4 gene cluster variants rs16969968 and rs578776 as well as specific demographic characteristics regulate ND and related smoking phenotypes in Bangladeshi male smokers. Further studies with large sample sizes are required to substantially validate the significance.

The prevalence of smoking among the population of residents of Primorsky krai (according to the regional stage of the ESSAY-RF in Primorsky Krai)

Objective: to analyze the prevalence of smoking in the population of conditionally healthy residents of Primorsky Krai included in the regional stage of the ESSAY–RF study and establish its relationship with traditional cardiovascular risk factors.Materials and methods: the work uses the database of the study «Epidemiology of cardiovascular diseases in various regions of the Russian Federation» (ESSAY-RF) in Primorsky Krai. In the study population, age, gender, smoking fact, pack/years index (PYI), body mass index (BMI), systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) levels, heart rate (HR), lipid spectrum (total cholesterol (TC), low lipoproteins (LDL) and high-density lipoproteins (HDL), non-high-density lipoproteins (non-HDL), triglycerides (TG)), uric acid level (UA) were analyzed. Statistical data processing was carried out using the StatTech v. 2.7.1 program (developed by Stattech LLC, Russia).Results: predictors of the development of chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCD) in groups of smokers (n=327) and non-smokers (n=1160) were studied. In the general group of smokers, an increase in the level of UA was found. When dividing the group of smokers into subgroups depending on the intensity of smoking (I-A with a low-medium degree of nicotine dependence at PYI&lt;10, and I-B with a high degree of nicotine dependence at PYI&gt;10), higher values of SBP, DBP, HR, TG, UA and lower values of HDL between groups I-B and non-smokers. The conducted correlation analysis showed the presence of a direct relationship between the intensity of smoking and the indicators of SBP, DBP, HR, TG and the reverse — with the level of HDL. The use of the method of paired linear regression with the condition of an increase in PYI by 1 in intensely smoking individuals showed a slight effect on the growth of SBP, DBP, UA, TG and HDL. Obviously, a high degree of nicotine dependence per se is a factor closely associated with an increase in the level of SBP, DBP, HR, UA, TG content and a decrease in HDL. With its even greater increase, the change in the predictors of CNCD occurs less noticeably and may be influenced by other positions, indicating the need for complete cessation of smoking at the stage of the presence of risk factors.Conclusion: taking into account the established relationships, it is necessary to strengthen preventive-oriented measures and motivating the population to completely give up smoking, and it is also necessary to monitor the main and additional significant predictors in the framework of outpatient follow-up.

Levels of nicotine dependency and its association with challenges to quit smoking among adult smokers in Malaysia 2021

Background: The nicotine dependency is related to many factors in terms of sociodemographic and smoking practices. Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the levels of nicotine dependency among adult smokers in Malaysia and to identify the association of nicotine dependency with sociodemographic factors and with challenges to quit smoking, respectively, among adult smokers in Malaysia. Methodology: A cross-sectional electronic survey was conducted through an electronic survey including all adult smokers in Malaysia. Standard questionnaires such as 21-item Challenges to Stopping Smoking questionnaires to assess the challenges to quit smoking and the Fagerstrom test were used to assess the nicotine dependency. The validated electronic online questionnaires were distributed, which comprised sociodemographic characteristics, assessment on smoking status, challenges to quit smoking, and nicotine-dependence test. Multiple logistic regression was used to identify the association of nicotine dependency with the challenges to quit smoking, respectively, among adult smokers in Malaysia. Results: Regarding the levels of nicotine dependence among current smokers based on Fagerstrom Nicotine-Dependence Score (n = 830), a total of 345 (41.6%) respondents had low-to-moderate nicotine dependence, followed by 312 (37.6%) who had moderate nicotine dependence; 158 (19%) respondents had low nicotine dependence, and 15 respondents (1.8%) were found to have high nicotine dependence. Conclusion: Smoking cessation services should be designed and implemented with the degree of nicotine dependence and pattern usage in mind. There should be more public health education about the dangers of smoking as well as more focus on motivation among smokers and their families.

Associations of clinical, psychological, and socioeconomic characteristics with nicotine dependence in smokers

Cigarette smoking is a risk factor of mortality and morbidity from various cancerous, respiratory, and myocardial diseases. Nicotine dependence is assessed based on the degree of physical dependence. We aimed to determine the clinical, socioeconomic and psychological factors associated with the smoking status and degree of nicotine dependence of smokers. From April 2009 to September 2010, we retrospectively collected data from 17,577 subjects aged ≥ 18 years who had undergone a general health examination at a health promotion center. The instruments used included the Fagerström Tolerance Questionnaire (FTQ), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Stress Response Inventory (SRI), and Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT). Of the current smokers (N = 3946), 2345 (59%), 1154 (29%), and 447 (12%) had low, moderate, and high nicotine dependence, respectively. In multiple logistic analysis, predictors of high nicotine dependence were male sex (odds ratio [OR] 3.705, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.997–6.945), older age (≥ 65 years) (OR 1.016, 95% CI 1.004–1.029), higher body mass index (BMI) (OR 1.048, 95% CI 1.018–1.078), diabetes (OR 1.870, 95% CI 1.251–2.794), single marital status (OR 1.575, 95% CI 1.186–2.092), lower education level (OR 1.887, 95% CI 1.463–2.433), and a higher stress level (OR 1.018, 95% CI 1.997–6.945). Thus, clinical, psychological, socioeconomic status including male, older age, higher BMI, diabetes, single marital status, lower education, and higher stress should be taken into consideration by promoting smoking cessation.

Salivary biochemical assessments to determine smoking cessation under smoking cessation program

The study aim was to investigate the potential of salivary biochemical assessments to determine smoking cessation in patients under smoking cessation programs. The study validated smoking behavior and degree of nicotine dependence using Fagerström test for nicotine dependence in smokers and non-smokers. Protein components were examined using Raman spectroscopy. Salivary matrix metalloproteinases-8 (MMP-8) levels were analyzed using Quantikine human total MMP-8 immunoassay-kits. Thiocyanate (SCN−) concentrations, peroxidase and glutathione-peroxidase activities were determined using spectrophotometric methods. Human mononuclear cell line was examined for M1 polarization. The data were analyzed using Fisher’s exact test and two-tailed paired t-test at α = 0.05. Amide I peak in smoker group was significantly reduced as compared to non-smokers (p < 0.05). Sulfhydryl bond, dialkyl disulfides SS-stretch and corresponding disulphide bond at 500−545 cm-1 were significantly increased in smokers (p < 0.05). The CH2 wag showed higher intensity amongst smoker group representing a recoil of carbon atoms. Salivary MMP-8 levels of participants after smoking cessation was significantly lower than smoking salivary levels (p < 0.05). The SCN− and peroxidase concentrations were significantly higher in smoking group whereas an M1 polarization was seen in non-smokers. Salivary biochemical analysis can aid clinicians to verify smoking cessation in patients under smoking cessation programs.

The state of pulmonary ventilation with varying degrees of severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease caused by tobacco dependence

The analysis of the ventilation function of the lungs was carried out against the background of different severity of the course of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, with different severity of nicotine dependence. It was found that an increase in the degree of nicotine dependence is directly proportional to an increase in bronchial resistance and a decrease in the elasticity of lung tissue. The degree of nicotine addiction to a greater extent changes the rate indicators, which increase with treatment.

Tratamento via macroterapia e acupuntura para tabagismo

This is an exploratory study of an integrative literature review with a qualitative approach, carried out in the LILACS, BDENF and SciELO databases. The study demonstrates the profile of patients undergoing treatment for smoking and then the patients' understanding of the use of acupuncture in the treatment. The age between 30 and 40 years of age draws the attention of the rate of people smokers and health problems such as anxiety, depression, cardiovascular diseases are frequent. The analyzed patients participated in more than three group sessions, where the degree of nicotine dependence is considered medium. In view of these results, it is possible to affirm that the treatments for smoking in the Basic Health Unit have great relevance for the primary health of the population, considering the number of smokers and the consequences of cigarette use. And acupuncture therapy in a unique way brings countless benefits to patients undergoing treatment and a better quality of life. Highlighting the profiles of patients cared for in primary health care.

Nicotine Dependence and Loss of Autonomy among Greek Adolescent Smokers: A Countrywide Cross-Sectional Study.

Nicotine dependence is one of the main reasons for the continuation of smoking among adolescents. Loss of autonomy (LOA) is a measure of dependence. This study is the first to investigate LOA and its determinants among Greek adolescents. In 2013, 13-to-15-year-old middle-school students were selected by multi-stage clustered sampling. LOA was evaluated with the Hooked-on-Nicotine Checklist (HONC). Multiple univariate analysis was used to assess the association between adolescent demographics, smoking habits, and loss of autonomy. Three-hundred thirty-nine current smokers responded to the questionnaire (response rate: 82.3%). Of these respondents, 51.2% were male and 88.8% reported at least one LOA symptom. The mean HONC score was 4.13/10 (95% CI: 3.82–4.45). Higher scores were negatively associated with lower smoking frequency (cumulative odds ratio (cOR): 0.240, 95% CI: 0.144–0.400) and positively associated with lower age at first cigarette (cOR: 2.29, 95% CI: 1.38–3.82). Female gender was significantly associated with the prevalence but not the degree of LOA. Overall, the prevalence and the degree of nicotine dependence among adolescent smokers in Greece is similar to other countries. Frequent smoking and initiation of smoking at a younger age are linked to nicotine dependence, although it was not possible to make causal inferences. The relationship between nicotine dependence and gender remains unclear.

Analysis of motivation to quit smoking in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases

Тobacco smoking is a leading risk factor for chronic ob-structive pulmonary disease (COPD) progression, it also decreases the therapeutic efficacy for bronchial asthma patients. The goal of the study was to analyse the rea-sons for smoking cessation and develop brief physician's advice for smoking cessation. Маterials and methods.156 COPD patients (grades 2 and 3), age ranging from 51 tо 75 years (110 males and 46 females), and 157 bron-chial asthma (BА) patients, of medium severity, age ran-ging from 20 tо 69 years (67 males and 90 females) have been studied. The control group included 100 smokers (20–68 years of age), with no acute diseases or respiratory symptoms throughout the study. Inclusion criteria: smo-king 10 or more cigarettes a day for no less than 3 years. A questionnaire was used to evaluate nicotine depen dence (Fagerstrom test), and motivation to abandon tobacco smoking (ТS). Results. The majority of COPD patients had high degree of nicotine dependence (ND) = 6.7±0.4 score, with controls' level of 5.2±0.5, р&lt;0.05 (similar levels both for males and females). Patients with asthma more often had medium and low degree ND. The majority of smo-king patients were highly motivated to smoking ces-sation, however, the maximum scores were shown by COPD patients in 23% of cases (practically even between males and females) and only in 10% of BA cases, mainly due to females not being ready to abandon TS (with max-imum scores only in 2% of cases). The main reasons for smoking quit were health maintenance, costs decrease, desire to stop being dependent on cigarettes, and tak-ing care of children's health. Conclusion. Health care providers when consulting the patients have to take into account the main reasons for stopping tobacco smoking, viz. health and cost-cutting concerns.

MSH2 EXPRESSION IN ORAL SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA

Objective The objective of the present work was to evaluate the DNA repair gene MSH2 expression in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Study Design The carcinoma group was composed of 32 OSCC samples and the control group by 15 samples of tissue borders of benign lesions removed from the oral cavity of patients equivalent in age, sex, and smoking habits to the patients of OSCC group. Gene expression was assessed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). In addition, clinical data, such as age, amount of cigarettes per day, time of tobacco consumption, smoking history (pack-years), degree of nicotine dependence, risk of alcohol use, and neoplasm staging were evaluated. The groups were compared using the Student t test and the correlation of the expression levels and clinical data were explored using the Pearson correlation coefficient, with P Results It was observed higher prevalence of males, with a mean age in years ± SD of 57.44 ± 13.32. The MSH2 gene was downregulated (1.13 fold decrease) in the OSCC group compared to the control with significant results (P = .0380). There was no significant correlation between MSH2 expression and the clinical variables studied. Conclusions MSH2 expression in OSCC was reduced.