Tobacco Use and Women's Health

Question 1

Tobacco Use

Answer 1

Is the leading cause of preventable death and disease in the United States and accounts for nearly 480,000 deaths every year.

Question 2

Exposure to secondhand smoke

Answer 2

Has adverse effects such as lung dysfunction, acute respiratory infections, recurrent otitis media, bronchitis, pneumonia, and sudden infant death syndrome.

Question 3

Third hand smoke

Answer 3

Is the residue from cigarettes and other tobacco products that can be left behind on surfaces such as clothing or furniture.

Question 4

Exposure to third hand smoke

Answer 4

Women and children exposued to thirdhand smoke are potentially at risk for DNA damage because components of thirdhand smoke are carcinogens.

Question 5

Electronic smoking devices

Answer 5

Typically deliver nicotine, flavorings, and other additives via inhaled aerosol.
The addictive properties of e-smoking devices have the potential to be comparable to those of conventional cigarettes. Despite some claims to the contrary, there is no evidence to suggest that e-cigarettes are an effective smoking cessation aid.

Question 6

Evidence-based interventions (5 A’s)

Answer 6

1. Ask about tobacco use
2. Advise to quit
3. Assess willingness to quit
4. Assist in quit attempt
5. Arrange follow-up

Medical professionals who implement these interventions should understand that multiple attempts may be needed

Question 7

Adolescence

Answer 7

Nearly all adult daily smokers began smoking during adolescence, and evidence shows that adolescents have an increased vulnerability to develop addiction to smoking. Therefore, prevention of initiation and promotion of cessation among teenagers and young adults is critical.

Question 8

AWHONN

Answer 8

Stands for the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses. They support comprehensive tobacco control initiatives and increased access to cessation services especially for vulnerable women, addressing their broader needs beyond healthcrae settings.