Dr Rosemary Hiscock Research Associate, University of Bath
Abstract
Background: Smokers often present at the NHS Stop Smoking Services with poor mental and physical health. Here we explore whether poor health affects the likelihood of quitting.
Data: Standard baseline monitoring data from 3057 clients was augmented for a prospective study. CO validation of quit status was carried out 4 weeks and 52 weeks post quit date. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to establish whether services differed in terms of the mental health of their clients and whether medical conditions and wellbeing predicted quitting . Regression analysis also was used to determine predictors of wellbeing.
Results: Compared with one to one specialist clients, level 2 clients were less likely to report a mental health medical condition. Clients who joined groups reported higher subjective wellbeing. Subjective wellbeing, but not medical conditions, predicted quitting after controls. Many characteristics that increase chances of quitting are also associated with higher wellbeing such as social support and socioeconomic status.
Conclusions: The presence of a medical condition does not of itself help or hinder quitting but feelings of wellbeing are a predictor of long term quitting. NHS SSS should consider clients' wellbeing when they approach the services and explore ways that wellbeing can be maintained and enhanced.
Source of funding: This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment (NIHR HTA) Programme (project number 09/161/01)
