Smoking cessation: COPD patients' perspective

Abstract

Background: Smoking cessation is the most useful and cost effective way to reduce the risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and stop its progression. Long-term success rates with smoking cessation programs are known to be poor. Aim: To identify the factors influencing the outcomes of smoking cessation programs in COPD patients from their perspective. Method: In-depth interviews were conducted with 27 patients with a history of smoking, chosen from a cohort of 173 patients with moderate to severe COPD participating in a community-based randomised trial. Results: The study sample consisted of 6 females and 21 males with a mean age of 69.6 years and a mean smoking history of 58.5 = 34.1 pack years. Six patients continued to smoke at the time of the interview. Patients had attempted both pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods for quitting. Smoking cessation in COPD patients was influenced by various barriers and facilitators pertaining to patient, health, treatment and healthcare providers. Conclusion: Health professionals may be able to improve the outcomes of smoking cessation programs in COPD patients by being more proactive in offering combination smoking cessation interventions with adequate follow-up.