Do behavioral smoking reduction approaches reach more or different smokers? Two studies; similar answers.
There is a need for innovative approaches capable of reaching smokers who would not otherwise participate in efforts to modify their smoking. This paper reports on two studies to determine whether a smoking reduction intervention would appeal to additional or different types of smokers than do cessation interventions. Study 1 attempted to contact 160 HMO smokers scheduled for outpatient surgeries. In Study 2, actual pilot reduction and cessation programs were offered to 531 smokers about to undergo out-patient surgeries or procedures. In Study 1, 39% of those eligible elected smoking reduction; and 38% selected cessation. In Study 2 of those eligible, 22% began participation in the smoking reduction program; 12% preferred a cessation approach; and 65% declined. There were few demographic or smoking history differences among those who elected smoking reduction, cessation, or declined. Among this understudied population, a sizable proportion in both studies agreed to participate in smoking reduction. If replicated, this suggests that comprehensive programs that include a smoking reduction component could substantially increase their reach.
Kaiser Permanente Colorado, P.O. Box 378066, Aurora, CO 80237-8066, USA. russg@ris.net
Russell E
RE
Glasgow
Bridget
B
Gaglio
Eric K
EK
France
Al
A
Marcus
Kimberly M
KM
Riley
Arnold
A
Levinson
Kimberly
K
Bischoff
D000368:Aged; D003153:Community Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009042:Motivation; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D016540:Smoking Cessation / Q000379:methods*; D000074606:Smoking Prevention; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires