Evaluation of a Refined, Nationally Disseminated Self-Help Intervention for Smoking Cessation ("Quit Kit-2")

Abstract

Providing more accessible support to smokers trying to quit is urgently needed. We, therefore, assess the impact of a nationally disseminated self-help intervention (Quit Kit-2) containing practical behavior change techniques (BCTs), including nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), and the effect of distributing these via pharmacies. Telephone and online interviews were conducted with 2,679 individuals who had received and used Quit Kit-2 to determine the impact of the kit on smoking behaviors and attitudes toward the intervention. The kit was well received; 66% reported that they found it helpful. About 65% said NRT was the main reason for requesting the kit. Those who redeemed the NRT voucher were more likely to report finding that the kit was helpful and increased motivation and confidence in quitting and hence would recommend the kit to others. About 75% reported attempting to quit, with 36% quitting for 4 weeks or more. Making quit attempts and successfully quitting for 4 weeks or more were significantly more common in those collecting the kit from a pharmacy than in those who ordered the kit online, and were significantly associated with reports of using the quit journey wall chart, when controlling for the use of other BCTs. Making a quit attempt was also significantly associated with reports of redeeming the NRT voucher. A nationally disseminated self-help intervention may be successful in initiating quit attempts and for short-term abstinence. The addition of NRT was a popular reason for people ordering the kit and redemption of the NRT voucher may increase quit attempts.