A Peer-Reviewed Publication Written by Lisa Dowst-Mayo, RDH, BSDH
Abstract
Tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of death in the United States1,2. Even with the increased cost of tobacco products, increase in anti-tobacco media campaigns and smoke-free laws for workplaces and public places, almost 20% of Americans still continue to use tobacco. Dental professionals are in an ideal position to directly influence tobacco use among their patients. This course will present tobacco use statistics, tobacco's effects on the human body and nicotine pharmacology as it relates to cessation programs. The contents of cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, electronic cigarettes and snus, will be discussed.
Educational Objectives
At the conclusion of this educational activity participants will be able to:
1. Discuss risk factors associated with tobacco use.
2. Identify patients at higher risk for tobacco abuse by understanding current statistical trends.
3. Discuss the different forms of tobacco products currently on the market in the United States and their components
4. Discuss the difficulties patients have sustaining a quit plan and why relapse rates are high for tobacco users.
To view this course in its entirety, please click here
