An example of a comprehensive approach to increase the access to evidence-based tobacco cessation support for smokers with rheumatic diseases

Abstract

INTRODUCTION For a comprehensive approach to adult smoking cessation, contributions by all physicians are more relevant than individual efforts. This study is an example of a collaboration that aims to increase access to smoking cessation assistance for smokers with rheumatic diseases. METHODS For this prospective cohort study, data were collected from adult current smokers diagnosed with inflammatory rheumatic disease. Brief cessation interventions were implemented by their primary rheumatology physician and they were informed about the smoking cessation service of the hospital. Upon their acceptance, their appointment to SCC was immediately arranged within the schedule of the clinic. After the intervention, their quit status was evaluated and confirmed by exhaled air carbon monoxide measurement at third month. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to evaluate the associated factors with successful quit status. RESULTS The mean age of the total 184 patients was 45.5 (SD=12.4) years, and 43.4% were female. The majority consisted of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (46.1%) and ankylosing spondylitis (38.0%). Of the patients, 117 (63.5%) were willing to quit. At third month, quit rate of the total group was 13.5%; 21.3% of the willing group, and 0% among the non-willing group. Among the willing group, 39% of those admitted to the cessation clinic and 14% of the non-admitters had successfully quit smoking (p[removed]