Abstract
Introduction: Data about respiratory symptoms and lung function are available for middle-aged adults post-cessation. Similar evidence is lacking for those aged 18 to 24 years. This study addresses that gap. Procedures: This report is a secondary analysis of data derived from two randomized controlled smoking cessation trials among a subset of 18- to 24-year-old college students. Data from both studies were combined regardless of treatment condition. Some participants received an active intervention while controls were provided with self-help smoking materials. Self-reported respiratory symptoms were longitudinally analyzed in 273 quitters. The change in respiratory symptoms was calculated by subtracting the final scores from those at baseline.
Summary of Data: The respiratory symptoms of continued smokers were compared to the quitters at the final visit using t-tests. Significant improvements in respiratory symptoms were found among quitters for morning cough, (p =.002) daytime cough, (p =.007), and chest pain (p =.007).
Statement of Conclusions: Young individuals rarely respond to quit-smoking motivation based on long-term health consequences, such as risk of tobacco-attributable cancers. A more appropriate motivational strategy for young adults appears to be emphasizing the existing respiratory symptoms caused by smoking. Clinicians are encouraged to detect and discuss respiratory symptoms with their young tobacco-using patients as a part of smoking cessation counseling and treatment. Highlighting post-cessation reduction in these symptoms is likely to reinforce continued abstinence.
Citation Information: Cancer Prev Res 2011;4(10 Suppl):B36.
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