A Survey of Lithuanian community pharmacist’s perception of the smoking harm and smoking cessation counseling possibilities at community pharmacies

Abstract

Introduction: Over the last several decades the importance of smoking prevention has increased. After analyzing the present situation, this research strives to encourage pharmacy specialists to be more involved in the problem, be interested in the existing aid measures, and be well-prepared to consult patients about smoking cessation. Methods: The participants in the study are Lithuanian community pharmacists. A total of 450 questionnaires were distributed among the selected pharmacies and a total of 352 questionnaires have been returned completed (response rate 78.2%). The statistical analysis of the data was performed using SPSS v. 17.0. Results: The respondents believe that the success of the consultation depends mostly on the patients’ motivation to quit smoking (91.1%), a trust in the qualified specialist (78.6%), and longer consultations (70.3%). Nicotine gum (94.4%) and nicotine patches (86.3%) were indicated to be the most effective medications for ceasing smoking; they are mostly recommended by those who have ceased smoking themselves or have over 10 years of work experience in the field (p<0.05). Conclusions: Community pharmacists in Lithuania believe that they are sufficiently qualified and the community pharmacy is an appropriate place for consulting on ceasing smoking. A third of the respondents encourage their patients to cease smoking and only a small part does not consult on this topic. The most frequent medications offered are nicotine gum and patches and respondents consult 1-2 times per day for up to 5 minutes. The success of the consultation is mostly influenced by the patients’ motivation, their trust in the specialist, and longer consultations.