Smoking Cessation, Version 3.2022, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Public Health
• Addiction Medicine

Background:

• Smoking significantly harms cancer patients, yet many continue tobacco use during and after treatment.
• The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Guidelines for Smoking Cessation highlight the need for tailored interventions for cancer patients.
• Existing recommendations focus on combustible tobacco, primarily cigarettes, but address various forms like cigars, hookah, and smokeless tobacco.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish evidence-based recommendations for smoking cessation interventions specifically for patients with cancer.
• To outline a comprehensive approach to tobacco cessation that addresses the unique needs of this population.

Main Methods:

• The NCCN Smoking Cessation Panel reviewed evidence to formulate recommendations.
• Interventions encompass motivational strategies, behavior therapy (counseling), pharmacotherapy, and ongoing follow-up.
• Recommendations are based on studies of cigarette smoking but apply to all combustible and smokeless tobacco products.

Main Results:

• Concurrent application of three key tenets is recommended for all cancer patients who smoke.
• These tenets include evidence-based motivational strategies/behavior therapy, evidence-based pharmacotherapy, and close follow-up with retreatment as needed.

Conclusions:

• A multi-component approach integrating counseling, medication, and sustained support is essential for cancer patients attempting to quit smoking.
• These recommendations aim to improve outcomes for cancer patients by addressing tobacco dependence concurrently with cancer treatment.