The effect of individual counseling, line follow- up, and free nicotine replacement therapy on smoking cessation in the samples of Iranian smokers: Examination of trans theoretical model

According to transtheoretical model (TTM), Stage matched interventions are more effective in quitting. The objective of current study was to investigate the effect of individual counselling, line follow-up, and free nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) on smoking cessation in smokers who are in preparation stage of smoking. In a randomized clinical trial design, through sending the short message system, potential participants in preparation stage of smoking were recruited and divided into control (n = 60)and treatment (n = 50)groups. The treatment group received an in-person counselling, line follow-up, and free NRT. TTM variables trend; prosand cons of smoking, behavioural and experiential processes, temptation, were assessed at baseline, 3 and 6 months follow-up along with point prevalence and continuous abstinence. Continuous abstinence at 6-month follow-up were 3.3%(n = 2) in control group and 46%(n = 23) in the treatment group (x2 = 34.041, P< 0.001). Time× group analyses indicated that except cons of smoking(P> 0.05), all TTM constructs had significantly changed; temptation (F= 36.864, P< 0.001), pros (F = 12.172, P< 0.001), experiential processes (F = 3.377, P< 0.001),and behavioural processes(F = 11.131, P< 0.001). Interventions based on TTM variables increased the quite rate in prepared and motivated people. Our findings suggest that interventions through individual counselling along with free NRT and line follow-up in people who prepare for quitting are beneficial for our country.