Understanding Tobacco Initiation, Continuation and Cessation from the Patient’s Perspective- A Scoping Qualitative Study in An Urban Dental Institute

Background: Tobacco consumption is a major public health concern worldwide and despite the well-known health risks, many people continue to smoke or use other tobacco products. The perspectives of patients on quitting tobacco are crucial in understanding the reasons for continued tobacco use and the barriers to quitting. Objectives: This study is therefore aimed to investigate the patient's perspective on smoking and consuming tobacco in a dental institute. Materials and Methods: The study utilised a qualitative design method, which included interviews, to collect data from patients who visited the dental institute in a metropolitan city. The survey was conducted among 10 patients, who were interviewed to gather in-depth information on their attitudes and perspectives towards tobacco consumption and the role of dental professionals in smoking cessation. Results: The study found that the patients had a positive attitude towards smoking cessation, with the majority of patients stating that they would definitely quit smoking if they received help and support from dental professionals and counselling centres. These interviews revealed that patients viewed tobacco as a significant factor in causing oral health problems, such as oral cancer, halitosis and tooth loss and they expressed a desire for more knowledge on the risks of smoking and how to quit. Additionally, patients were not much aware about the role of dental professionals in smoking cessation and treatment of oral cancers. Therefore, this study emphasises the vital responsibility of dental professionals in promoting tobacco cessation and the need for increased efforts to do so within dental institutes. This can help healthcare providers develop more effective tobacco cessation interventions that address patients' needs and experiences. Conclusion: The results suggest that patients are willing to receive help to quit tobacco consumption and would benefit from more support and information from dental professionals. Our study results can ultimately lead to better health outcomes for patients and reduce the burden of tobacco-related illnesses.