Learning Objectives: describe how Latino physicians address ETS issues with their patients
Abstract: The contribution of physicians to tobacco control has been well established, and their perspectives and behaviors regarding educating patients about tobacco use and smoking cessation have been studied. However, little attention has been paid to physicians’ practices related to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS). No published studies have examined the ETS-related practices of racial/ethnic minority physicians. This may be of considerable relevance, as there is evidence that minorities may be more exposed to secondhand smoke, both at home and work. Objective: the objective of this study was to assess the ETS practices of Latino physicians. Method: participants were identified through the New Mexico Hispanic Medical Society. A valid and reliable survey instrument was mailed out to all qualified physicians.
Results: The response rate was 58% (n=47). Only 15% routinely “ask” patients about exposure to ETS, and 7% percent “assist” patients exposed to secondhand smoke in understanding the health risks associated with ETS.
Conclusions: Latino physicians are not appropriately addressing secondhand smoke. ETS education is an issue that deserves to be more aggressively addressed. Because there are more than 25,000 Latino physicians in the US, they may be in a position to contribute to educating the public on ETS.
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