Summary
Introduction:
This text summarizes the results of a pilot survey study that investigates the attitudes and practices of head and neck cancer surgeons (hNCS) regarding electronic cigarettes (EC) and tobacco harm reduction (ThR). The study found that the majority of hNCS have an unfavorable attitude toward EC and do not recommend EC as smoking cessation tools. however, there is a divide in hNCS who inquire patients about EC use. Moreover, more than half of respondents are unfamiliar with the concept of ThR, suggesting that provider familiarity with ThR could influence their patient EC inquiry and discussions.
Key Points:
* The response rate of the survey was 15.1% (136 members).
* The majority of hNCS (75.00%) have an unfavorable attitude toward EC as a smoking cessation tool.
* Seventy-three (53.68%) respondents regularly inquire about EC use.
* Fifty-eight respondents (42.7%) are familiar with the concept of ThR.
* Those familiar with ThR are more likely to inquire about EC use (63.79% vs. 46.15%, p=0.0496).
* Twenty-two (37.93%) of those familiar with ThR believe the benefits of EC outweigh the potential risks, while 21 (26.92%) of those unfamiliar with ThR think the same way (p=0.0052).
* health care providers, including hNCS, need more education and cessation counseling tools during training regarding EC.
* Larger, randomized, and prospective studies are needed to investigate the unknown long-term effects of EC use.
Main Message:
The study suggests that hNCS have an unfavorable attitude toward EC, and more than half of them are unfamiliar with the concept of ThR. The findings suggest that provider familiarity with ThR could influence their patient EC inquiry and discussions. Therefore, there is a need for more education and cessation counseling tools during training regarding EC. additionally, larger, randomized, and prospective studies are needed to investigate the unknown long-term effects of EC use. Overall, the study highlights the need for further research and education regarding EC and ThR among hNCS.
Citation
Koo EY, Kozak KJ, achim V, Wenig BL. E-cigarette use and tobacco harm reduction: Pilot survey study evaluating perspectives of head and neck surgeons. head & neck. 2022;44(2):582-585. doi:10.1002/hed.26949
