Lesley Sinclair, Prof Linda Bauld and Dr Stephen Harrow
Presenter(s)
Lesley Sinclair Research Associate/Trial Manager, Institute for Social Marketing, School of Health Sciences, University of Stirling and UK Centre for Tobacco and Alcohol Studies (UKCTAS)
Abstract
Introduction
Many patients diagnosed with lung cancer continue to smoke even though this can make their treatment less effective and increase side effects. Patients continue to smoke as they find it difficult to stop. This study is the first of its kind to explore the feasibility, acceptability and benefits to patients of stopping or reducing smoking using e-cigarettes whilst undergoing drug treatment for cancer.
Methods
25 smokers with stage IV lung cancer about to start chemotherapy treatment at one NHS site in Scotland will be provided with an e-cigarette starter kit, shown how to use it and followed up for four months. Qualitative interviews with participants, family members and health professionals will be conducted.
Results & Discussion
This pilot study will establish whether e-cigarettes can provide a viable alternative to aid smoking cessation in stage IV lung cancer patients to inform the design of a future trial. Recruitment to the study commenced April 2016. This presentation will demonstrate some of the challenges in recruiting patients to this type of study, and initiating and maintaining e-cigarette use in this population. Early results on e-cigarette use, side effects, and reduction in tobacco use at 4 week follow up will be discussed.
Source of funding: Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation
