The 13th World Conference on Tobacco OR Health

Objective: The Argentina, Buenos Aires GHPS attempts identify data on prevalence of cigarette smoking and other tobacco use , knowledge and attitudes of tobacco use, exposure to second-hand smoke, desire for smoking cessation, and training received during medical school regarding patient counseling on smoking cessation techniques. This information could be very useful in monitoring and developing Argentina, Buenos Aires' comprehensive tobacco control program.

Methods: The Argentina, Buenos Aires GHPS was a PAHO and CDC school-based survey of all 3rd year medical students attending the 4 medical schools. The school response rate was 100%, and the student response rate was 86.4%. A total of 348 students participated.

Results: Almost 4 in 10 students currently smoke cigarettes and 6% use other tobacco products. 6 in 10 students who smoke want to quit. Over 9 in 10 students are exposed to smoke in public places. Almost 9 in 10 students support a ban on smoking in all public places. 5% of students received training to provide patients with cessation approaches. Over 9 in 10 students would like to receive training to help patients quit smoking.

Conclusions

Firstly, our findings indicate significant cigarette use and nicotine dependence among medical students in Argentina, mainly females. To reduce prevalence among health students, more comprehensive public health initiatives are needed. Secondly, most of the students know about tobacco danger and agree that smoke should be banned in most enclosed places, although more regulations and enforcement measures are needed.