Which statement is true regarding the scoring of the Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence?

Which statement is true regarding the scoring of the Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence?

• A. Scores reflect overall health
• B. Lower scores indicate stronger dependence
• C. Higher scores indicate more dependence
• D. Scores are irrelevant to treatment planning

Answer: (C)

The Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence is designed to assess an individual's level of dependence on nicotine. The scoring system of this test ranges from 0 to 10, with higher scores indicating a greater degree of dependence on nicotine. This correlation is important because understanding the level of dependence can help healthcare providers tailor interventions and treatment plans accordingly. Higher scores suggest that the individual experiences a more intense physical and psychological need for nicotine, which can complicate cessation efforts. Therefore, recognizing the significance of the scores aids in developing effective strategies for smoking cessation and behavioral modifications needed for recovery. The focus on dependence rather than health or treatment irrelevance aligns with the specific purpose of the test, which is to measure nicotine addiction rather than general health outcomes or treatment methodologies.

The Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence is designed to assess an individual's level of dependence on nicotine. The scoring system of this test ranges from 0 to 10, with higher scores indicating a greater degree of dependence on nicotine. This correlation is important because understanding the level of dependence can help healthcare providers tailor interventions and treatment plans accordingly.

Higher scores suggest that the individual experiences a more intense physical and psychological need for nicotine, which can complicate cessation efforts. Therefore, recognizing the significance of the scores aids in developing effective strategies for smoking cessation and behavioral modifications needed for recovery. The focus on dependence rather than health or treatment irrelevance aligns with the specific purpose of the test, which is to measure nicotine addiction rather than general health outcomes or treatment methodologies.