When to ask about tobacco use

When to ask about tobacco use
You should ask everyone who comes to see you about their tobacco use. This is because most tobacco-related diseases occur only after many years. Thus, teenagers who begin smoking regularly will show signs of disease only when they are in their 40s or 50s. By then, it is usually too late to prevent the disease. Suspect tobacco use:
• when you smell tobacco on the breath;
• when you notice yellow stained teeth or fingers;
• when you notice decayed teeth or a discoloured tongue;
• when you see a packet of cigarettes in the person’s clothing;
• whenever a person has breathing or chest complaints.