Screening and Counseling Practices for Parental Combustible Versus Electronic Cigarette Use in Pediatric Primary Care: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Objective: Tobacco exposure plays an important role in children’s health. Little is known about pediatrician’s experience with parental e-cigarette use. This pilot study aimed to assess pediatrician’s knowledge, attitude, and behaviors regarding parental e-cigarette use. Methods: This cross-sectional survey at an academic clinic assessed residents’ and attendings’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding parental combustible and e-cigarette use and counseling and cessation barriers. Results: Sixty of 69 care providers completed the survey. Participants reported asking about parental use (5% vs 58%, Δ = 53% [95% CI Δ = 40%-67%]), advising about harms (5% vs 52%, Δ = 47% [95% CI Δ = 33%-61%]), and assisting with quitting (2% vs 28%, Δ = 27% [95% CI Δ = 15%-39%]) significantly less for e-cigarettes than for combustible cigarettes. The most common barrier to discussing use was lack of time. Lack of knowledge, unsure of harm, and lack of training were reported significantly more for e-cigarettes than for combustible cigarettes. Conclusion: Parental screening and counseling rates are significantly lower for e-cigarettes than for combustible cigarettes in this pilot study. Increased training could help pediatricians better protect children from tobacco exposure.