Having Effective Conversations About Nicotine

In this episode, we explore the changing landscape of nicotine dependence and discuss cessation, focusing on practical strategies for GPs to support their patients in quitting smoking and vaping or other forms of nicotine. We discuss recent legislative changes, the latest evidence-based treatment options, and the importance of patient-centred communication. Our expert guests include: • Professor Rowen Ivers – GP, public health physician, and member of the RACGP Expert Advisory Group on Tobacco • Vanessa McLean – NSW Quitline Supervisor and experienced counsellor • Facilitated by Carolyn Murray – Director, Tobacco and E-Cigarettes Strategy, NSW Health Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about nicotine dependence, withdrawal, and quitting, including references to mental health struggles, suicides, and suicidal thoughts. If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to Lifeline (13 11 14) or Quitline (13 7948). Key Discussion Points: 1. Understanding the policy and legislative environment 2. Effective conversations about nicotine dependence 3. Evidenced-based treatment options 4. The role of Quitline and referral pathways Resources mentioned in this episode: • RACGP Supporting smoking cessation: A guide for health professionals - https://www.racgp.org.au/clinical-resources/clinical-guidelines/key-racgp-guidelines/view-all-racgp-guidelines/supporting-smoking-cessation • ICanQuit NSW Government website - https://www.icanquit.com.au/ • Quitline PAVE app - https://url.au.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/So_5Clx1rOT1XjRGCGfVTzZYUN?domain=cancer.nsw.gov.au Download it for Apple devices - https://apps.apple.com/au/app/pave/id6737787436 Get it on Google Play - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.cinsw.vayp&pli=1 • NSW Health Guide to Support Young People to Quit E-Cigarettes - https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/tobacco/Pages/e-cigarette-young-people-guide.aspx • NSW Health Vaping toolkit - https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/tobacco/Pages/vaping.aspx • Therapeutic Goods Administration Vaping hub - https://www.tga.gov.au/products/unapproved-therapeutic-goods/vaping-hub