Evaluation of a Newly Developed Tobacco Cessation Program for People with Disabilities

Smoking is the single most preventable cause of morbidity and mortality, accounting for 480,000 deaths in the United States annually. While the rate of smoking continues to decline, people with disabilities (PWD) smoke at a rate of 1.5 times greater than that of the general population. Higher incidence of tobacco use among PWD has been directly related to both unique and universal cessation barriers. Despite the increased prevalence of tobacco use and cessation obstacles this population faces, there is minimal literature focusing on the development of successful interventions targeting PWD. Thus, we aimed to test the feasibility, acceptability, and potential effectiveness of a cessation intervention tailored to PWD.

Eighteen tobacco users with disabilities (56% African American, 64% male) participated in a 4-week, 8-session tobacco cessation program consisting of group sessions on managing addiction, relapse, and lifestyle changes specific to PWD.  Semi-structured interviews were conducted at the conclusion of the program. A follow-up measure of smoking status, triggers, and NRT usage was completed at 4 weeks and 6 months.

Sixteen participants completed the intervention (89%), with participants on average attending 86% of the sessions. Most participants rated the program as excellent (83%) or good (8%). Qualitative interviews revealed that participants value social support, accessibility, and a tailored program. Four participants (22%) reported abstinence at 6 months which is greater than the standard quit rate.

This study suggests that tailoring a cessation program to the characteristics unique to PWD may be critical in delivering meaningful and effective cessation interventions among this population.