Tobacco smoking is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In Saudi Arabia, the prevalence rate of smoking has been estimated up to 28%. However, nationwide primary-care smoking cessation programs are not fully implemented. Several pharmacotherapies have been proven to be effective as smoking cessation aids. In this article, a summarized approach to smokers presenting to primary care will be discussed with a focus on first-line pharmacotherapy used in smoking cessation.
Key words: Smoking, cessation, primary care, Saudi Arabia
|