The decline of smoking among Australian physicians from 1964 to 1997
Author Information
Author(s): Smith Derek R, Leggat Peter A
Primary Institution: University of Newcastle, Australia
Hypothesis
The smoking rates among Australian physicians have significantly declined over the decades.
Conclusion
The review indicates that contemporary Australian physicians smoke at very low rates compared to international standards, demonstrating the positive impact of an active professional community on lifestyle choices.
Supporting Evidence
- Smoking rates among Australian physicians fell from around 30% in the 1960s to less than 5% by the 1990s.
- By 1982, only about 10% of Australian physicians were still smoking.
- Physicians who smoke are less effective in persuading patients to quit smoking.
Takeaway
Doctors in Australia used to smoke a lot, but now very few do, which is good because it helps them encourage their patients to quit smoking too.
Methodology
A comprehensive review of published manuscripts on tobacco usage rates among Australian physicians from 1964 to 1997.
Potential Biases
Potential systematic under-reporting of smoking habits due to embarrassment or social desirability.
Limitations
All studies relied on self-reported measures of smoking, which may lead to under-reporting.
Participant Demographics
Australian physicians from various medical backgrounds.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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