[Determining an appropriate scheme for "Quitline" in Japan]

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Tobacco Control
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Quitline services are telephone helplines supporting smokers aiming to quit.
• While common globally and in East Asia, Japan lacks a nationwide quitline program.
• This study reviews international quitline models and efficacy to inform a Japanese scheme.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize existing quitline services internationally.
• To review the efficacy of various quitline modalities.
• To propose an appropriate quitline scheme for Japan.

Main Methods:

• Investigated quitline modalities in Australia, New Zealand, Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, USA, and UK.
• Conducted literature search in Medline and Cochrane Database for "hotlines" and "smoking cessation".
• Reviewed efficacy of modalities used in quitline services, including reference list screening.

Main Results:

• Asia Pacific quitlines utilize diverse tools: booklets, websites, mobile services, email, and proactive counseling.
• Meta-analyses and RCTs confirm efficacy of individually tailored materials in quitline services.
• Integration with Japan's existing smoking cessation infrastructure (hospitals, pharmacies) is recommended.

Conclusions:

• An effective Japanese quitline necessitates varied, individually tailored materials.
• Complementing the existing smoking cessation infrastructure is crucial for successful implementation.
• A tailored, integrated approach will enhance quitline effectiveness in Japan.