BACKGROUND: Physicians play a critical role in smoking cessation (CS) of their patients. Providing a brief advice by physicians had been associated with a 1–3% increase in quit rates.
Objectives: The current study aims to examine the association between attitudes toward SC and smoking habits among physicians in PCC in Arab communities, and examine the extent of physicians’ engagement in SC practices among their patients according to the 5As (i.e., Ask, Advise, Assess, Assist, Arrange).
METHODS: An online survey was conducted between 2020 and 2022 and included 282 physicians in PCC in Arab communities across three districts of a large Health Services Fund. Multivariate analyses were performed to assess smoking status, attitudes, and engagement in providing SC services.
RESULTS: Physicians who were more actively involved in (SC) reported higher supportive attitudes than those who were less involved. Compared to current smokers, former-smoker physicians, and those who never-smoked were more likely to engage in smoking cessation (OR=3.93, 90% CI=1.25–12.40; OR=5.14, 90% CI=1.87–14.08). Never-smoked physicians were more likely to Ask patients about their smoking status (OR=4.54, 90% CI=1.19–17.28) and to offer SC advice (OR=7.76, 90% CI=1.97–30.46) compared to current smokers. Former-smoker's physicians were more likely to offer cessation counseling (OR=4.67, 90% CI=1.73–12.66). Additionally, never-smoked physicians were more likely to Assess cessation (OR=4.63, 90% CI=1.50–14.25) and to assist patients in quitting (OR=5.15, 90% CI=1.83–14.51).
CONCLUSIONS: Physicians' smoking status significantly influence their attitudes and SC practices. Never-smokers and former-smokers are more likely to Ask, advise, and assist with cessation. These results underscore the need for dedicated SC workshops targeting PCC physicians. This can enhance engagement in SC services and ultimately improve cessation among patients.