 |
The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
|
The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
Susan Johnese, MPH, CHES1, John Noell, PhD2, Dennis V. Ary, PhD2, and Lynne H. G. Swartz, MPH, CHES2. (1) Oregon Center for Applied Science, Inc., 1839 Garden Ave, Eugene, OR 97403, 541-342-7227, sjohnese@orcasinc.com, (2) Oregon Center for Applied Science, 1839 Garden Ave, Eugene, OR 97403
Objective: This presentation presents the findings of a randomized control trial to evaluate the effectiveness of a video-based interactive smoking cessation intervention delivered via the Internet. Given smokers’ preference for self-help methods and the large (and increasing) number of households with Internet access, we developed and evaluated a self-help web-based cessation program based on a previously proven clinical model. The program makes extensive use of video materials, targeted to the characteristics of 12 sub-populations differentiated by age, gender, and race/ethnicity. Program content includes information on pharmaceutical aids to smoking cessation (i.e., nicotine replacement and buproprion) and an extensive section on behavioral management. The program was developed with funding from the National Cancer Institute.
Methods: More than 700 participants were recruited for the evaluation, mostly through direct contact via large U.S. worksites (500+ employees). Participants were randomized to treatment (immediate access to the program) or wait-list control (access to the program in three months). Surveys were administered at baseline and immediately after use of the program with three-month and six-month follow-ups. Key outcome measures were quit rate (as point-prevalence of seven-day abstinence at follow-up assessments) and average daily number of cigarettes smoked.
Results: Program users were approximately 2 ˝ times more likely to quit smoking. There was a significant condition by age interaction, the program being more effective with smokers less than 40 years old. Further findings and implications for future Internet-based smoking cessation interventions will also be discussed.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participants will be able to
Keywords: Tobacco, Internet
Related Web page: www.quitcigs.org
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Oregon Center for Applied Science, Inc.
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employment