Assessing the reach of nicotine replacement therapy as a preventive public health measure

Access to Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) is a key public health intervention to reduce smoking. We assessed prevalence and correlates of use of NRT in Ontario, where NRT is available without prescription.

Participants were a representative sample of 2262 adult smokers in the Ontario Tobacco Survey cohort. Prospectively measured use of NRT over a 6-month period was reported in relation to smoking behaviour and history, attempts to quit, receipt of other supports for cessation supports and attitudes toward NRT.

Overall, 11% of smokers used NRT over the six-month follow-up period. Prevalence was 25% among the 27% of smokers matching clinical guidelines that recommend NRT as a therapeutic option, and low among smokers not trying to quit.

With increasing accessibility of NRT, further surveillance and research are warranted to determine the impact of the reach and benefits of NRT, considering both the general and targeted smoking populations.