An intensive group therapy programme for smoking cessation using nicotine patch and internet mailing supports in a university setting

Abstract

Despite the growing literature on workplace tobacco control policies, very few studies have evaluated the role of smoking cessation programme as one of these policies in a university setting. We aimed to investigate the efficacy of intensive cessation programme delivered in a group format using nicotine patch therapy and internet mailing supports for our university employees. From January 2003, we conducted the group therapy programme for smoking cession seven times in Okayama University, Japan. This programme consisted of nicotine patch therapy and on-line supporting system. Smoking status was regularly assessed by direct interviews. A total of 102 employees were enrolled in this programme, of whom 101 initiated their smoking cessation. One hundred participants (99%) received nicotine patch therapy, and its toxicities were generally mild. Of the 94 employees who could be follow-up for a year after the cessation, 50 (53%) sustained abstinence for a year. Multivariate analysis revealed that writing and sending e-mail messages within the first 1 week were significant factors affecting long-term cessation. The type of position also affected the cessation rate. This study suggests that our programme in a university setting seems to be effective mainly because of peer-supports among the participants through regular face-to-face meetings and their own mailing supports.