Application of augmented and virtual reality in cigarette smoking cessation: A systematic review

Abstract

The goal of this systematic review was to describe the use of augmented reality and virtual reality in cigarette smoking cessation and the adherence to smoking cessation among smokers. We searched several databases to identify suitable studies published between September 2011 and September 2021 for inclusion in this review. Suitable MeSH terms were used to devise a precise search strategy using PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and Turning Research into Practice database. The search yielded 304 articles, of which 5 were selected and 4 were considered for quality assessment. All four studies suggested that when the intervention was given through virtual reality, the adherence to smoking cessation was apparently high. Promoting cigarette cessation through conventional techniques could take a longer time for achieving commitment among those who wished to quit, while virtual reality created an interest to quit smoking. Arranging for augmented and virtual reality experiences for smokers through mobile applications and virtual reality headsets in the future could help improve smoking cessation and adherence compared to conventional pamphlets for health education.