Attitudes and Behaviors of Dental Hygienists Concerning Tobacco Use

Abstract

This study surveyed a proportionate random sample of licensed dental hygienists in five states and the District of Columbia, to assess their antitobacco use behaviors and attitudes. The response rate was 79.4 percent. Descriptive data as well as chi-square, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Duncan's multiple range test statistical results were reported. Only 6.9 percent of the hygienists sampled currently smoked. These hygienists appeared to exhibit significantly different aggregate attitudes and select clinical practice behaviors than their nonsmoking counterparts. Years of employment and geographic location showed no significant relationship to aggregate clinical practice behaviors or attitudes, although each was related to individual behaviors and attitudes. Overall, dental hygienists appeared committed to involvement in both individualized and community-based antitobacco-use efforts. Measures to coordinate hygienists' involvement at both of these levels need to be enhanced.