A WeChat-based smoking cessation intervention for Chinese smokers: a feasibility study

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Public Health
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• WeChat is China's dominant social media platform.
• Few smoking cessation interventions have utilized WeChat.
• Effective digital health interventions are needed for smoking cessation in China.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and assess the feasibility of a WeChat-based smoking cessation intervention.
• To evaluate recruitment, engagement, and satisfaction metrics.
• To determine the potential for large-scale implementation.

Main Methods:

• Participants were recruited via WeChat and randomized into Standard, Enhanced, or Control groups.
• Feasibility indicators included reach, recruitment rate, cost, attrition, message exposure, engagement, and satisfaction.
• Statistical analyses included Chi-square, Fisher exact test, and ANOVA.

Main Results:

• Recruited 403 eligible participants out of 1,132 initial contacts (35.6% recruitment rate).
• Attrition rate was 46.4%; cost was $0.85 per person.
• High engagement (56.8%) and satisfaction reported by responsive participants.

Conclusions:

• A WeChat-based smoking cessation intervention is feasible and effective for engaging Chinese smokers.
• The platform's reach and engagement suggest potential for broad public health impact.
• Further expansion of this digital intervention is warranted.