Learning Objectives: assess whether Hispanic physicians comply with current recommendations for smoking cessation practices
Abstract: Although there exists a large body of research on physician's perspectives and behavior regarding educating patients about health issues, including smoking cessation, few studies have examined the tobacco-related practices of racial/ethnic minority physicians. There is a clear lack of information on the practices related to tobacco use assessment, counseling and follow-up among Hispanic physicians. Through the use of a validated instrument, this pilot study assesses smoking related practices among Hispanic physicians in New Mexico. Results indicate that less than half of the participants ask about smoking status or advise smoking patients to quit. Even fewer assist smoking patients or make follow-up arrangements. In light of these results, greater effort should be made to encourage Hispanic physicians to intervene with patients who smoke. With more than 28,000 Hispanic physicians practicing in the U.S., they could play a key role in tobacco control.
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