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The use of electronic or e-cigarettes, commonly referred to as vaping, has markedly increased in recent years. Vaping devices were initially introduced to promote smoking cessation in the chronic adult smoker as a less harmful substitute for combustible cigarettes. However, they have significantly expanded in popularity with youth, creating a global health crisis. Broadly, 2 populations of individuals are noted to vape: the chronic smoker attempting to quit and young teenagers who are lured into using these devices. Recent evidence indicates an outbreak of vaping-associated lung injury and other physiological disturbances that may be particularly harmful to patients and clients. Many physical therapists are currently unaware of the physiological effects of e-cigarettes and lack the knowledge and confidence needed to provide cessation recommendations at the individual and community levels. This lack of awareness also hampers the assessment of physiological responses, appropriate modifications to the plan of care, and referral for interprofessional consultation when indicated. The purpose of this perspective article is to provide recent updates to educate physical therapists and physical therapist assistants about e-cigarettes and relevant implications for patient care. The article reports the growing prevalence of e-cigarette use as a public health crisis, the pathophysiological impact of vaping on various body systems, and the unique role physical therapists and physical therapist assistants can play in successfully engaging in e-cigarette cessation interventions. The authors suggest a targeted 5-step Verify, Assess, Plan, Educate, and Refer approach that can be utilized by physical therapists in addressing vaping and smoking cessation. Finally, the article discusses opportunities for incorporating these strategies into physical therapist education and offers avenues for future research and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Tobacco use is the leading preventable risk factor for chronic disease, disability, and premature mortality. People with disabilities experience higher tobacco use and reduced access to services when compared with the general population. The negative impact on treatment outcomes across all practice settings provides a strong incentive for physical therapists (PTs) to engage in tobacco cessation counseling (TCC). Methods: Prevalence of TCC and barriers toward implementation was explored using an anonymous cross-sectional survey of Florida-licensed PTs. Data were analyzed using frequency counts and percentages. Logistic regression was used to quantify relationships between individual knowledge and opinions, and rates of counseling. Results: Of the 212 respondents, 31% regularly provide cessation advice, 7% assist in identifying specific cessation strategies, 13% recommend additional resources, and 3% arrange for follow-up. More than 90% were unfamiliar with evidence-based TCC guidelines; approximately 80% had no prior training in screening for tobacco use or TCC. Conclusions: Most respondents agreed that patients should be screened for tobacco use and counseled accordingly, but few were familiar with evidence-based TCC guidelines. Further training is required to promote knowledge and skill in TCC, along with systems changes to reduce barriers toward the implementation of TCC within the clinical environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The field of athletic training continues to evolve and mature as an integral part of the overall health care team. The National Athletic Trainers' Association and Commission on Athletic Training Education acknowledge and emphasize the importance and responsibility of athletic trainers in meeting the national health agenda through the professional preparation of its current and future practitioners. The United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion has established priorities for improving the nation's health in a document called Healthy People 2020. Physical activity is a major component for most of the topic areas, positioning athletic trainers to significantly contribute towards achieving the objectives. Despite knowledge regarding the benefits of physical activity, research indicates that less than 25% of American adults meet the recommended guidelines for exercise. Effective strategies to promote exercise adherence must incorporate an expanded perspective of potential barriers and a deeper understanding of other factors that affect the decision to pursue a healthy lifestyle. Further training in social and behavioral theory will improve athletic trainers' ability to communicate with clients by applying concepts that enhance self-efficacy, promote outcome expectancies, and strengthen intentions to actively engage in recommended levels of physical activity. The purpose of this paper is to enhance understanding of fundamental social and behavioral theory, with reference to athletic training, in order to promote its application in athletic training education and practice. This will enable athletic trainers to continue to work towards meeting the goals established by Healthy People 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]