Seven steps of gradual cessation of smoking--an example from India

[corrected] One sixth of smokers in the world live in India. The National Family Health Survey showed that individuals with no education were 2.69 times more likely to smoke and chew tobacco than those with postgraduate education. Whether the physicians' interaction with public can cause the smoking cessation or habit by detailing the harmful effects as well as benefits of cessation without any withdrawal effects? Our aim was, therefore, to help people to stop smoking step by step.

The study was conducted at the University Student Health Care Centre, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India, from June 2004 to February 2005. A total of 1,200 students smokers (graduate, post graduate or research scholars) participated. They were from 17 to 32 years old (mean age, 26 years). All were male sex. Each and every student was explained in details risks and hazards, and benefits of cessation, focusing this latter on immediate and substantial benefits at any sex and age; their every question and quarries were explained. All were told that either they should stop smoking immediately or minimized step by step. The seven steps were explained to them.

The smoking duration was one year and more in all the participants ranging from one to 15 years; the average period of smoking was five years and six months; the number of smoked cigarettes per day was 12 on average (5-20). In 450/1200 (37.50%) students, either of any family members were smoking while 200 (16.66%) students have been inspired from their friends. The majority of 780/1200 (65%) gave-up smoking at any step as advised. The followup could not be done in 80/1200 (6.6%) students who did not report at any of the stages. Finally, 340/1200 (28.0%) students either reduced the number or failed to give-up smoking.

The results of the study are very encouraging. Such interaction type of doctors with smokers will not only help to the concerned person but also to the society.