An evaluation of the effects of chronic diseases and health conditions on tobacco cessation

Abstract

Objective: This study examined the effects of chronic health conditions on tobacco cessation and participation in a follow-up assessment among 13,900 smokers in a telephone-based tobacco cessation programme. Design: This study involved gathering data from individuals during pre- and post-intervention telephonic assessments following their decision to participate in the tobacco cessation wellness programme. Setting: The study sample included participants from across the United States, with a large concentration living in the Midwestern region. Method: The study sample was limited to participants who were eligible to receive three-month, six-month, and 12-month follow-up calls. Logistic regressions were used to allow an estimate of the impact of chronic conditions while holding constant other factors such as age, readiness, and confidence. Results: The results suggest that the presence of certain chronic conditions was associated with a reduced likelihood of quitting smoking. The presence of chronic conditions did not influence the likelihood that participants completed the follow-up assessment. Interestingly, the effect of chronic conditions on cessation was only slightly higher than the impact of gender. The four-point difference warrants further investigation, especially considering the higher rates of depression in women. Conclusion: This study supports prior research that the presence of one or more chronic conditions has a negative effect on the ability to cease tobacco use. More customized programmes are required to overcome the significant effect of gender, the presence of certain chronic conditions such as depression, and the impact of follow-up calls on cessation success.