Factors associated with outcome in unaided smoking cessation, and a comparison of those who have never tried to stop with those who have.

Abstract

Heavily dependent smokers may fare better in unaided cessation than the results of clinic-based research suggest. For those who have tried to stop, increasing motivation and social support, and minimizing withdrawal symptoms, may be more productive than further emphasis on health risks. Motivating smokers who have not previously tried to stop may involve more emphasis on the health risks of smoking and the health benefits of stopping, as well as on other non-financial benefits of stopping such as social acceptability. Fiscal measures may be particularly effective in motivating this group of smokers to try to stop.