MONTRÉAL (October 19, 2015)-- A survey distributed by researchers from the Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center in Manila, Philippines, may have found a link between the number of duty hours and the prevalence of physicians who smoke. The survey was used to evaluate the smoking behaviors and motives of health care professionals in specialty training in Metro Manila Hospitals. The physicians were divided into groups according to their duty schedules and specialty training. Results from the survey showed that in total, 27.83 percent of the surveyed population were smokers.
Among the overall group, researchers found that the highest prevalence of smokers was observed among surgeons at 39.62 percent, and those who work every two days duty schedules. Social factors such as the presence of an immediate colleague or superior who smoke also increase the likelihood of smoking.
"Health care professionals, particularly those who are considered specialists, should act as role models for health and wellness," said Dr. Angelo T. Adraneda, a pulmonologist based in Manila, Philippines, and lead researcher. He added, "A considerable number of physicians continue the habit despite knowing its ill effects and consequences."
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Further results will be shared during CHEST 2015 on Monday, October 26, at 7:30 am at Palais des congrès de Montréal, room 512dh. The study abstract can be viewed on the CHEST website.
CHEST 2015 is the 81st annual meeting of the American College of Chest Physicians, held October 24-28, 2015, in Montréal, Canada. The American College of Chest Physicians, publisher of the journal CHEST, is the global leader in advancing best patient outcomes through innovative chest medicine education, clinical research, and team-based care. Its mission is to champion the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of chest diseases through education, communication, and research. It serves as an essential connection to clinical knowledge and resources for its 18,700 members from around the world who provide patient care in pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine. For more information about CHEST 2015, visit http://chestmeeting.chestnet.org, or follow the CHEST meeting hashtag, #CHEST2015, on social media.