Abstract:

The major reason why obese or slightly overweight individuals continue smoking is the belief that weight gain will increase after leaving smoking. The aim of this study was to analyze the prevalence of tobacco use in patients admitted to our Obesity Outpatient Clinic and the obstacles to quitting tobacco products. Of the 617 patients admitted to the Obesity Outpatient Clinic of our hospital between January 12 and October 1, 2019, 100 patients who accepted to participate were included in our study. Data were obtained from the patients through a prepared sociodemographic data form, the Fagerstrom tolerance questionnaire and an obesity evaluation form using the survey method. Of the patients, 48 (48%) were between the ages of 18-40, 44 (44%) were between the ages of 40-65, and 8 (8%) were over the age of 65. Of the patients, 77 (77%) were female, while 23 (23%) were male. Of the patients, 28 (28%) stated they had never smoked before, while 23 (23%) stated they previously smoked and quit, and 49 (49%) stated that they regularly use tobacco products. When distributed by gender, 48% of goods (n: 11) and 47% of females (n: 38) were smoking. When the patients who tried to quit smoking but failed were questioned about the reason of starting smoking again (they were allowed to state more than one reason), it was found that obesity-related concerns (100%) such as fear of gaining weight, starting weight gain and increased appetite were the most important cause. Especially the fact that the rate of smoking among obese women is 3 times higher than in women smoking across our country suggests that the smoking rate is high due to the fact that women care more about physical appearance and have a fear of gaining weight.  We think that the misperception that smoking will reduce obesity should absolutely be addressed and the most significant treatment that a physician could offer to obese patients who smoke would be correct this perception.