Smoking cessation programs in Middle Eastern dental schools

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to explore current policies and practices concerning smoking cessation programs adopted by dental schools across the Middle East and to determine the extent of smoking cessation teaching in dental schools. A survey questionnaire was e-mailed to the deans of twenty-five dental schools that were identified from the Arab Association of Dental Faculties website. The response rate was 80%. Fifty-five percent had written tobacco policies, 85% banned smoking in non-clinical teaching facilities, 90% banned smoking in clinical areas and 55% in public access areas. Fifty-five percent taught students appropriate patient smoking cessation techniques. All schools taught the role of tobacco in oral cancer and periodontal disease aetiology and 75% in osseointegrated implant failure. With respect to barriers limiting the teaching of smoking cessation, 35% had not encountered any obstacles. However, 20% cited social, peer pressure, overloaded curriculum and lack of training and interest. Forty- five percent of respondents stated that there were no planned initiatives to develop smoking cessation techniques within their curricula. It is concluded that Middle Eastern dental schools have identified the role of education in the anti-smoking campaign. However, much still needs to be done on improved approach to policy implementation