Learning Objectives: Describe the essential elements of an effective, evidence-based adult smoking cessation program
Abstract:
Problem/Objective: Currently, there are a number of adult smoking cessation programs offered by National Organizations, but few have been based on formal long-term evaluation. After careful review of three nationally recognized and two local smoking cessation programs, the Rockland County Department of Health set out to create a new and innovative evidence-based adult smoking cessation program.
Methods: The "Put It Out Rockland" 8-week, ten session adult smoking cessation program, created in conjunction with a trained evaluator is based on many of the tried and true components of behavior modification programs. With the infusion of tobacco settlement dollars in Rockland County, we were able to secure nicotine replacement patches to be provided to "medically eligible" participants.
Results: After a small pilot, significant improvements were made to the program and we have now held five additional programs with an average end of program quit rate of 88% and a three-month quit rate of 44.7%. Quit rates again will be assessed at six months and one year. As we continue to perfect the program and keep abreast of emerging research, we expect our quit rates to continue to rise.
Conclusions: Six months after creating a new evidence-based adult smoking cessation program, the data suggests a wide-scale interest in quitting smoking in Rockland County, with classes filled to capacity, and more than half of all new participants being referred by former participants. Based on a recent countywide assessment of smoking rates, we anticipate translating the program into Spanish, Creole, and Yiddish in the near future.
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