Screening and counseling for nicotine use in youth with diabetes

Abstract

Objective To assess current practice patterns and identify knowledge gaps among pediatric endocrinologists in the United States regarding screening and counseling for combustible tobacco and e‐cigarette use in youth with diabetes. Introduction Electronic cigarettes (e‐cigarettes) are the most used tobacco product among adolescents and may be associated with an increased risk of progression to combustible cigarette smoking, cardiovascular disease, and stroke. Diabetes mellitus is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and nicotine products can increase this risk. We sought to assess current practice patterns and identify knowledge gaps among pediatric endocrinologists in the United States regarding screening and counseling for combustible tobacco and e‐cigarette use in youth with diabetes. Research Design and Methods We conducted an anonymous, online‐based survey of Pediatric Endocrine Society members who provide care to youth with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. The survey collected information about provider demographics and smoking habits, knowledge and attitudes regarding screening and counseling for combustible tobacco and e‐cigarette use, and current practice patterns. Results The survey was completed by 106 individuals of whom 64 reported providing care to youth with diabetes mellitus and ever asking about combustible tobacco or e‐cigarette use. The majority of respondents were female, attending providers, and working in academic medical centers. None reported a history of formal training in e‐cigarette counseling but recognized the harms of e‐cigarette use. Nearly all (98%) who ever screen for nicotine use reported routinely screening for combustible tobacco use, while 18% never screen for e‐cigarette use (p < 0.01). Over 80% of respondents reported feeling confident or very confident about discussing the harms of combustible tobacco, compared to 58% reporting the same confidence in discussing harms of e‐cigarette use (p < 0.0001). Over 90% of respondents agreed that pediatric endocrinology providers should ask about nicotine use with over half agreeing that counseling reduces the risk of initiating nicotine product use, and 30% reported lack of change with counseling as a barrier to discussing nicotine use. Lack of visit time was the most reported barrier to discussing nicotine use. More providers cited lack of knowledge regarding e‐cigarettes compared to combustible tobacco as a barrier to discussing its use. Conclusions Pediatric endocrinology providers recognize the harms of e‐cigarette use, but more frequently ask about combustible tobacco use compared to e‐cigarette use. This may be related to lower reported confidence and provider knowledge in counseling about e‐cigarette use. Increased utilization of existing resources and expanding opportunities for providers to learn more about e‐cigarettes may increase provider confidence and comfort in screening and counseling.