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Among the hustle and bustle of a busy practice, it is understandable that a provider might overlook asking some important questions.

‘I will prevent disease whenever I can, for prevention is preferable to cure.’ Used in many medical schools today, many providers subscribe to this core tenet of practicing medicine. And the commonly-acknowledged, low hanging fruit in terms of prevention? Quitting smoking.

It is an indisputable fact, smoking causes an enormous burden on public health. But while policy measures are being applied more widely to control tobacco use, inadequate attention is given to what health care professionals can do in their routine work with patients.

For those who smoke tobacco, quitting usually ranks high on the New Year’s resolution list. In fact, XX% of those who smoke in Spokane County stated in a recent survey that they wish to quit. What better time for the local medical community to recommit to supporting patients’ successes in quitting?

Developmental screening can be done by a number of professionals in health care, community, and school settings.