Addressing the e-cigarette conversation gap

A recent study led by Head of Paediatrics at Nepean Hospital Clinical Associate Professor Dr Habib Bhurawala and paediatrician Dr Anthony Liu along with researchers from Federation University Victoria, Children’s Hospital at Westmead, University of Sydney, University of Notre Dame and Western Sydney University, found it difficult for doctors and young people to initiate a conversation, while GPs felt ill-equipped to advise on e-cigarette use compared to traditional cigarettes.

“GPs are well-positioned to have these conversations with children and adolescents, but there is a need for educational interventions to increase their awareness and build their confidence on the topic,” says Habib.

“Adolescents may feel uncomfortable discussing vaping in front of their parents during GP appointments. Coupled with a lack of parental knowledge and attitude regarding e-cigarettes, GPs can potentially be the first adults to have these discussions."

Vaping prevention is a large focus within NSW Health and NBMLHD. A range of tools and guides on the effects of vaping and support for health professionals to manage nicotine dependent clients is available from the NSW Health website. 

The full study is available to read: www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/21/9/1215