Keywords: nicotine addiction, Third-hand cigarette smoke, Addiction

Aim:

This study aimed to evaluate family physicians' beliefs about third-hand smoke (THS) and related factors.

Method:

This cross-sectional study was conducted with 119 family physicians. Participants' sociodemographic characteristics, smoking status, and knowledge regarding smoking cessation counseling were assessed using a structured questionnaire. Belief levels regarding UEDs were analyzed using a scale with a total score ranging from 9 to 45, where higher scores indicated higher awareness and perception of harm. Appropriate statistical tests were used for intergroup comparisons.

Results:

The average age of the participants was 39.88±10.10 years, with 51.26% being male and 76.47% married. 51.69% of the participants were general practitioners, 27.12% were residents undergoing field training, and 21.19% were specialist physicians. 29.41% of the participants were active smokers, while 61.34% stated they had never smoked. The rate of receiving smoking cessation counseling training was 25.21%. The mean total score for the STEM was found to be 38.58±8.21. Participants with a family history of asthma/COPD had significantly higher STEM scores (40.89±4.42 vs 38.10±8.70; p=0.038). No significant relationship was found between STEM scores and other sociodemographic and clinical variables (p>0.05).

Conclusions:

Family physicians generally had a high level of awareness regarding third-hand smoke. A family history of respiratory disease appeared to be a significant factor in increasing awareness. In light of these findings, it is important to expand educational programs aimed at increasing awareness of third-hand smoke in primary care settings.