Research article summary (published 30 Jul 2009):

Feasibility of using E-mail counseling as part of a smoking-cessation program.

Full Abstract

BACKGROUND: The need for more effective smoking-cessation interventions is firmly established. However, access to these services can be problematic in real life. E-mail messages may be a convenient alternative to deliver smoking-cessation interventions. The aim of this pilot study was to assess the effectiveness of incorporating tailored e-mail consultation messages in a smoking-cessation program for smokers willing to quit. METHODS: This pilot study examined the feasibility of integrating e-mail consultation messages in a smoking-cessation program for smokers willing to quit and with Internet access. At baseline, demographic data, smoking history and expired carbon monoxide (CO) levels were collected at a clinic visit. The subjects were provided with the specialist's e-mail address and instructed to prepare e-mail messages containing simple and clear information about their quitting progress. The counselor offered e-mail counseling throughout the smoking-cessation program. A 6-month follow-up visit was arranged, at which abstinence was reviewed. RESULTS: Of the 30 participants initially enrolled in the study, 21 (70%) attended the follow-up 6-month visit. E-mail counseling was more frequently offered (4-8 times) to the participants who completed the study, compared to those lost to follow-up (1-4 times). Comparisons with baseline exhaled CO values showed a significant within-group reduction at 6 months after smoking-cessation (P < .001) in the quitters, compared to smoking-cessation failures. Sustained smoking abstinence at 6 months was 37%. CONCLUSIONS: The integration of e-mail consultation counseling in a smoking-cessation intervention is feasible and effective. E-mail counseling as part of a smoking-cessation program warrants further evaluation.

Author information

Author/s: Polosa, Riccardo (R); Russo, Cristina (C); Di Maria, Annalisa (A); Arcidiacono, Giuseppe (G); Morjaria, Jaymin B (JB); Piccillo, Giovita A (GA);

Affiliation: Dipartimento di Medicina Interna e Specialistica, Centro Antifumo Universitario, Università di Catania, Via Passo Gravina 187, 95125 Catania, Italy. polosa(-atsign-)unict.it

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

Journal: Respiratory care (Respir Care), published in United States. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2009-Aug; vol 54 (issue 8) : pp 1033-9

Dates: Created 2009/08/04; Completed 2009/10/22;

PMID: 19650944, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 10/22/2009, IMS Date: )

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

Comments and Corrections

CommentIn: Respir Care. 2009 Aug;54(8):1024-5. (PMID: 19650941)

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MeSH headings (categories)

This article was linked to the MESH Headings shown below.

Directive Counseling Electronic Mail Feasibility Studies Female

Humans Male Middle Aged Smoking Cessation - methods

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