Characteristics of smokers and predictors of quitting in a smoking cessation clinic in Guangzhou, China

Background Smoking cessation programs are well established in the West, but reports on smoking cessation clinics (SCCs) from China are lacking. On the basis of the Hong Kong experience and with strong support from Guangzhou Health Bureau, we established the first SCC in Guangzhou, China. The objective was to describe the characteristics of smokers, measure quit rates and examine predictors of successful quitting. Methods During 2006-08, 220 smokers received individual counseling following the five A's and five R's. No medications were used. Results At baseline, the mean (SD) age was 40 (14) years. Most (96%) were males, married (73%), currently employed (75%), college educated or above (54%); 77% had previous quitting attempts. By 14 May 2008, 195 reached the 6 months follow-up period. Of them, 79% (151/195) were successfully followed up, and 46 had quit. By intention to treat, the 6-month 7-day point prevalence quit rate was 24% [95% confidence interval (Cl) 18-30%]. Smokers with more confidence in quitting or were at action stage were more successful in quitting with adjusted odds ratio of 2.39(95% Cl 1.01-5.30) and 5.50(95% Cl 1.08-28) respectively. Conclusions A pilot-model clinic free of charge and with systemic data collection, follow-up and evaluation should be a starting point for smoking cessation program in low-income countries.