Study Finds Immediate Access to Smoking Cessation Clinics Boosts Quit Rates for COPD and Asthma Patients
A recent multicenter trial conducted in Turkey demonstrated that linking patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma directly to smoking cessation clinics significantly improves their chances of quitting smoking. The trial, involving 400 smokers from respiratory clinics, found that immediate appointments at cessation clinics led to a quit rate of 27%, compared to 17% in the usual care group, who were referred to a quitline. The findings highlight the importance of integrating smoking cessation support into routine care for patients with chronic respiratory diseases.
Immediate Intervention Yields Better Outcomes Participants who received immediate appointments at smoking cessation clinics had higher success rates in quitting smoking, as well as greater access to effective treatments like nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and bupropion. These pharmacotherapies played a critical role in supporting patients’ efforts to quit.
Barriers to Quitting and Study Limitations Despite 60-70% of smokers expressing a desire to quit, sustained abstinence remains a challenge for many, especially those with chronic lung diseases. This trial highlights the need for targeted interventions. However, limitations such as the lack of biochemical verification of smoking cessation and the short follow-up period suggest that future research should focus on long-term outcomes to assess the durability of quit rates.
Key Findings and Future Implications The study underscores the importance of making smoking cessation assistance readily available to COPD and asthma patients. Healthcare providers should consider adopting similar approaches to improve patient health outcomes and reduce smoking rates among this vulnerable population.