Andrea Crossfield, Ansa Hussain and Caroline Midmore
Presenter(s)
Andrea Crossfield Chief Executive, Healthier Futures, Manchester
Ansa Hussain Campaigns and Engagement, Healthier Futures, Manchester
Abstract
Healthier Futures (formerly Tobacco Free Futures) Coordinated research to identify how local Stop Smoking Services (LSSS) can support smokers who want to use e-cigarettes to quit smoking completely. Insight based recommendations were made for how to redesign services in order to attract smokers considering e-cigarettes as a quit aid and to promote services in general.
Research objective: To identify how LSSS can best support smokers using e-cigarettes to quit.
Research methods: Six focus groups were conducted with smokers aged 18-65 who had either successfully quit using e-cigarettes or who were currently using e-cigarettes as part of their quit attempt. No-one had used stop service smoking support as part of their most recent quit attempt.
Insights included:
• Reasons for considering e-cigarettes to quit; perceived role of e-cigarettes; assumptions around continuing use after quitting
• Perceptions of e-cigarettes generally; perceived relative efficacy; benefits and advantages including perceived levels of harm
• Expectations of LSSS support in general and for e-cigarettes; hopes for an ideal LSSS offer
Key learning:
In order to attract smokers considering e-cigarettes as a quit aid, it will be vital to first increase consideration of LSSS in general, by promoting awareness of their accessibility and the effective support they offer.
Source of funding: This work was funded and delivered as part of a wider tobacco control programme commissioned by 8 local authorities in Cheshire and Merseyside through the CHAMPS public health network.
Declaration of interest: Healthier Futures (formerly Tobacco Free Futures) is not linked to the tobacco industry or its subsidiaries and has never received any tobacco industry funding. There are no conflicts of interest relating to this research or presentation.
