Authors: Edenfield, S; Coulton, K

Source: Journal of Dental Hygiene, Number 1, Winter 1st January 2007 , pp. 41-41(1)

Publisher: American Dental Hygienists' Association

Abstract:

The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency of tobacco use and interest in cessation by patients utilizing the Armstrong Atlantic State University (AASU) dental hygiene clinic. The study's aim was to contribute to the Southeast Georgia Cancer Coalition goals in its mission to educate the public about tobacco use health risks and to provide cessation education. Subjects were of diverse age, socioeconomic status, and ethnicity groups, including those who were medically compromised and may have limited access to care. A medical history, oral assessment, and tobacco use survey were conducted. Utilizing a National Cancer Institute survey for tobacco use and interest in cessation asessment form, data were analyzed to determine age, race, gender, and quantifiable tobacco use and cessation factors by tobacco users. Of the sample (N= 202), there was a greater number of nonusers and a total of 37 tobacco users. Pearson's r Linear Association and Spearman Correlation indicated that in the user subgroup, inhalation was the most frequent mode of use; tobacco use by women was significant (p<.03), while use by men was not; whites (12:1) used more than nonwhites; younger individuals (18-33 years) used tobacco at a greater rate; and, the trend to smoke decreased with age. The data further suggested that the younger age group, both males and females, demonstrated higher levels of interest in cessation. Additionally, the younger age group indicated participation in cessation consultation with a physician (p<.05). It was concluded that tobacco use assessment provides the dental hygiene student with an awareness of their integral role as educator, advocate, and clinician, thereby contributing to the patient's overall health, most specifically young white females. It further serves society by assisting in the reduction of a major health risk.

Document Type: Abstract

Affiliations: 1: Armstrong Atlantic State University.

Publication date: 2007-12-01

More about this publication?

• Members please log in here.
  
  Statement of Purpose
• Editorial Board
• Information for Authors
• Submit a Paper
• Subscribe to this Title
• Information for Advertisers
• Continuing Education
• ingentaconnect is not responsible for the content or availability of external websites

Related content

• In this: publication
• By this: publisher
• In this Subject: Dentistry
• By this author: Edenfield, S ;  Coulton, K

Website © Publishing Technology. Article copyright remains with the publisher, society or author(s) as specified within the article.

• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Information for advertisers