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E-cigarettes as smoking cessation aids: a survey among practitioners in Italy

Author

Listed:
  • Lambros Lazuras

    (Sheffield Hallam University
    ‘La Sapienza’ University of Rome)

  • Milena Muzi

    (‘La Sapienza’ University of Rome)

  • Caterina Grano

    (‘La Sapienza’ University of Rome)

  • Fabio Lucidi

    (‘La Sapienza’ University of Rome)

Abstract

Objectives To describe experiences with and beliefs about e-cigarettes as safe and useful aids for smoking cessation among healthcare professionals providing smoking cessation services. Methods Using a cross-sectional design, anonymous structured questionnaires were completed by 179 healthcare professionals in public smoking cessation clinics across 20 regions in Italy. Results Service providers reported that considerably more smokers made inquiries about e-cigarettes in 2014 than in 2013. The most frequent inquiries concerned the ingredients, safety and effectiveness of e-cigarettes as smoking cessation aids. Clients used e-cigarettes to quit smoking, cut down the number of conventional cigarettes smoked, have a safe alternative to smoking, and protect their health while continuing to smoke. More than 60 % of service providers reported favourable beliefs about the safety and effectiveness of e-cigarettes, and believed that e-cigarettes are as effective as other smoking cessation aids, including pharmacotherapy. Conclusions Despite limited empirical evidence, service providers in Italy viewed e-cigarettes, as safe and effective smoking cessation aids. More concerted efforts are needed to improve knowledge about e-cigarettes among service providers, to guide their clinical practice and decision-making with respect to e-cigarettes.

Suggested Citation

  • Lambros Lazuras & Milena Muzi & Caterina Grano & Fabio Lucidi, 2016. "E-cigarettes as smoking cessation aids: a survey among practitioners in Italy," International Journal of Public Health, Springer;Swiss School of Public Health (SSPH+), vol. 61(2), pages 243-248, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:ijphth:v:61:y:2016:i:2:d:10.1007_s00038-015-0772-x
    DOI: 10.1007/s00038-015-0772-x
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Martin McKee, 2014. "Electronic cigarettes: proceed with great caution," International Journal of Public Health, Springer;Swiss School of Public Health (SSPH+), vol. 59(5), pages 683-685, October.
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