Knowledge and interest regarding smoking-related health risks in smokers and non-smokers

Abstract

Abstract
The first step to motivate smokers to quit smoking is to give them enough knowledge and raise their awareness of smoking-related health risks. In order to help smokers successfully quit smoking, it is important to know the differences in the levels of perception and interest regarding smoking-related health consequences between smokers and non-smokers. A survey was administered to patients visiting Outpatient Department of Cardiovascular Disease or Health Screening Center, National Hospital Organization, Kyoto Medical Center to measure current knowledge and interest regarding the health problem of cigarette smoking. Results from this survey offered there were no significant differences in levels of knowledge about smoking-related health risks between in smoker and non-smokers. In contrast, levels of interest were lower in smokers than in non-smokers in most questionnaires. Levels of perception regarding the effect of public smoking ban on decreased incidence of myocardial infarction, harmful effect of outdoor smoking on indoor secondhand smoke, and the risk of development of diabetes were especially low both in smokers and non-smokers, suggesting that more attention should be given to these informations. Notably, levels of interest were significantly lower in smokers than in non-smokers regarding passive smoking-related risks, the effect of public smoking ban on decreased incidence of myocardial infarction and harmful effect of outdoor smoking on indoor secondhand smoke.