Heavy dependent nicotine smokers--Newfound lifestyle appreciation after quitting successfully. Experiences from inpatient smoking cessation therapy

Abstract

Objectives: This is an evaluation of an ongoing inpatient smoking cessation program available in Austria and aims to show to what extent even heavy nicotine dependent smokers can benefit from a three-week inpatient therapy.

Study design: A particular focus lies on analyzing the benefits and changes in lifestyle and sense of well-being.

Methods: 270 initially heavy nicotine dependent smokers are observed for a one year period consisting of recruitment, therapy and two post-therapy follow-up visits; post program smokers are compared to post program ex-smokers.

Results: 12 month post-therapy, 42.6% of participants are identified by carbon monoxide-verifications as ex-smokers, 34% as smokers and the remaining did not attend follow-up visits. Significant changes in lifestyle satisfaction are reported by ex-smokers compared to still smokers.

Conclusions: Convincing heavy dependent nicotine smokers that significant changes in lifestyle satisfaction can be expected as part of a successful cessation process should lead to enough motivation for these individuals to seek such inpatient smoking cessation program.

Keywords: Inpatient smoking cessation; Lifestyle; Nicotine dependence; Quality of life.