Factors associated with quitting among smoking cessation medication-assisted smokers and ex-smokers: A cross-sectional study in Australia

Effective smoking cessation medications (SCM) are available and are recommended for the treatment of tobacco smoking. In this study, we evaluated rate and factors associated with successful quitting among individuals who supported their quit attempt using SCMs in Australia. An observational online cross-sectional survey was conducted using a convenience sample of smokers and ex-smokers in Australia. A self-administered questionnaire was used to evaluate socio-demographic, psychological, smoking, and medication use characteristics. The Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence scale was used to assess the level of nicotine addiction. Logistic regression used to identify factors associated with smoking cessation. Of the 201 respondents, 33.3% had successfully quit smoking. Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), varenicline, and bupropion were used by 71.6%, 19.9%, and 8.5% respectively. The rate of quitting was 30.6%, 47.5%, and 23.5% for participants who used NRT, varenicline, and bupropion, respectively. Six in ten (59.6%) of the participants who were adherent to SCMs reported continuous abstinence. Whereas 22.9% reported quitting among participants who were nonadherent to SCMs. Adherence to SCMs was significantly associated with increased rate of quitting (AOR = 2.67, 95% CI of 1.17-6.10). Additionally, having smoke-free home was associated with successful smoking cessation (AOR = 2.34, 95% CI of 1.13-4.90). In conclusion, one in three participants self-reported that they successfully quit smoking. Adherence to SCMs and smoke-free home were strongly associated with quitting. Smoking cessation programs and future studies are recommended to incorporate medication adherence as a core component. Hometargeted and family-inclusive interventions are recommended to manage smoke-free homes and enhance success of quitting attempts.

Automated summary

This study evaluated the rate and factors associated with successful quitting among individuals who used smoking cessation medications in Australia. Adherence to medication and smoke-free homes were strongly associated with quitting.