Association between successful smoking cessation and preferred smoking time

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Behavioral Science
• Addiction Research

Background:

• Understanding triggers for smoking is crucial for effective cessation strategies.
• Daily routines and preferred times for smoking influence cessation outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the link between preferred daily smoking times and smoking situations.
• To determine if preferred smoking times are associated with successful smoking cessation.

Main Methods:

• An internet survey was conducted with 3637 participants (aged 30-59).
• Participants were categorized by smoking status: successful cessation, failed cessation, or current smoker.
• Data collected included preferred smoking times and times of greatest craving.

Main Results:

• Former smokers (quit >1 year) significantly preferred 'after dinner' cravings over 'after breakfast' or 'upon waking'.
• Individuals finding it hardest to resist smoking after dinner had a low rate of quitting for less than 3 months.
• Preferring to smoke after dinner was linked to lower initiation of cessation but higher long-term success.

Conclusions:

• Individuals with a preference for post-dinner smoking show reduced likelihood of initiating cessation.
• Successful long-term smoking cessation (over 1 year) is more common in those who prefer to smoke after dinner.
• Tailored smoking cessation support focusing on preferred smoking times may improve overall cessation rates.