Smoking remains a leading cause of preventable disease and death worldwide. In a recent seminar, Dr. Farah Thawer, a seasoned pharmacist and educator at SolRx, provided a comprehensive overview of smoking cessation strategies. This session offered valuable knowledge for healthcare professionals and students preparing for the PEBC MCQ Exam.

Understanding Smoking Cessation

Dr. Thawer began by highlighting the importance of smoking cessation in reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and respiratory illnesses. She emphasized the pharmacist’s role in supporting patients through their quit journey.

Key Takeaways from the Seminar

• Assessment of Readiness to Quit: Utilizing tools like the “5 A’s” (Ask, Advise, Assess, Assist, Arrange) to determine a patient’s readiness and tailor interventions accordingly.
• Pharmacological Interventions: Discussion on first-line therapies including Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT), bupropion, and varenicline, focusing on their mechanisms, dosing, and side effect profiles.
• Behavioral Support: Emphasizing the importance of counseling, setting quit dates, and developing coping strategies to handle triggers and cravings.
• Follow-Up and Monitoring: Establishing regular follow-ups to monitor progress, address challenges, and adjust treatment plans as needed.

Enhancing Clinical Competence

The seminar underscored the critical role of pharmacists in smoking cessation efforts. Dr. Thawer’s insights bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, equipping attendees with actionable strategies for clinical practice.

Conclusion

Dr. Farah Thawer’s seminar offered a comprehensive overview of smoking cessation, blending evidence-based guidelines with real-world clinical scenarios. Participants left with a deeper understanding of their role in supporting patients to quit smoking and improve health outcomes.