Role and Attitudes of Dental Auxilliaries Towards Smoking in Fiji

Introduction: Dental professionals play a role in preventing oral cancer by providing smoking cessation services1 Dental clinics are ideal settings to conduct these programs informing patients on the risks associated with use of tobacco and its adverse effects on oral health. Objective: To assess attitudes and behaviors of dental auxiliary staff in smoking cessation advice to cigarette smokers in Fiji. Methods: Survey was carried out in most Western and Central divisional health centers in Fiji. A questionnaire cross-sectional survey on participants' demographics, attitudes and practices to smoking cessation was conducted in 2010 (n= 55). Results: Most (67%) dental auxiliaries advise patients to quit smoking; out of which only 49% assist and refer patients for further counseling. Majority of dental auxiliaries (72%) were comfortable in rendering smoking cessation advice and overwhelmingly 82% appreciate a refresher course. Dental auxiliary staff who are current smokers do not usually advise patients to quit smoking (62%). Barriers identified include time and lack of reimbursements. Discussion: In Fiji, Periodontal Disease is prevalent in adults2 and smoking is a risk factor. Promotion of smoking cessation activities as a component of Oral Care in all Dental Clinics in Fiji should be encouraged. Unlike this study, a Melbourne study4 concluded that Dentists advice patients on smoking cessation, but are less inclined to assist them in follow up activities. An Australian study in 2001 of dentist, 70% considered smoking cessation counseling to be part of their professional role3 similar to our findings of 72% for dental auxiliaries. Conclusion: Dental auxiliary staff in Fiji play a role towards smoking cessation. Barriers such as time, salary reimbursement and further training will improve participation to these efforts.