A training session for healthcare professionals was held in the capital of Moldova, focusing on modern approaches to tobacco control. Special attention during the event was given to smoking among socially vulnerable groups, particularly among incarcerated individuals.
Smoking in prisons remains widespread despite official bans. Nicotine often serves as a short-term coping mechanism, helping to relieve stress and providing a brief sense of “relief” in an environment of restricted freedom. However, the main reason for smoking in places of detention is social adaptation. In prison, survival often depends on being part of a community, and smoking becomes a tool for integration. Studies show that in the U.S., only 11% of the general population smokes, whereas up to 80% of former inmates are smokers.
Healthcare professionals noted that tobacco bans are ineffective without addressing the underlying psychological and behavioral addiction. Passive smoking also causes serious harm to the health of inmates.
During the training, participants were introduced to modern smoking cessation strategies that are based on scientific evidence rather than moral pressure. They learned:
-
how to assess the level of nicotine dependence;
-
how to work effectively with patient motivation;
-
which tools and methods actually help people quit smoking;
-
and what to do when a long-term smoker or someone with a high level of dependence cannot overcome their addiction.
Moldova, like Ukraine, is actively seeking effective strategies to reduce tobacco use. Therefore, developing patient-centered clinical practices is particularly important.
Special attention was also given to the topic of harm reduction — how to act when a person is not ready or able to completely quit nicotine.
The organizers expressed their gratitude to the healthcare professionals for their active participation, professional attitude, and willingness to implement new tools in everyday practice.
