Effectiveness of an internet-based worksite smoking cessation intervention at 12 months.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate effectiveness of an Internet-based smoking cessation program as part of a comprehensive health risk reduction initiative in a large, geographically dispersed employee population.


METHODS
A financial incentive for participation was offered during 2003 health benefits enrollment. The primary cessation outcome was 7-day point prevalence abstinence at 12 months.


RESULTS
A total of 1776 employees used the Internet program. Among those surveyed, the response rate was 32%. Quit rates ranged from 13% using intention to treat analysis (nonresponders counted as smokers) to 43% among survey responders. Higher Web site utilization was associated with better cessation outcomes, even after controlling for baseline motivation.


CONCLUSIONS
The Internet program was successful at reaching a large number of geographically dispersed employees. The range of quit rates suggests that Internet cessation programs can be effective in promoting cessation and preventing relapse in a worksite setting.
Graham
Amanda L
AL
Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA. alg45@georgetown.edu
Cobb
Nathan K
NK
Raymond
Linda
L
Sill
Stewart
S
Young
Joyce
J
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016272:Occupational Health; D009786:Occupational Health Services; D016540:Smoking Cessation / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome