Perspectives on a Technology-Based Smoking Cessation Intervention Among Youth Exiting Foster Care
Jordan M Braciszewski1, Suzanne M Colby2, Michael J Franklin3
1Center for Health Policy and Health Services Research, Henry Ford Health System, 1 Ford Place, Suite 3A, Detroit, MI, USA 48202.
Children and Youth Services Review
|June 4, 2025
Summary
Youth in foster care, a group at high risk for smoking-related illnesses, found a technology-based smoking cessation program easy to use and supportive. They suggested improvements like quitline connections and mental health resources.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Behavioral Science
- Health Disparities
Background:
- Youth in foster care face elevated risks for tobacco-related diseases.
- This population has limited access to evidence-based cessation care and is underrepresented in health program development.
- Research on effective smoking cessation interventions for this demographic is scarce.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and user experience of a technology-based smoking cessation program for youth exiting foster care.
- To gather participant feedback on intervention strengths, barriers to quitting, and suggestions for enhancement.
Main Methods:
- A technology-based smoking cessation intervention was trialed with 18 participants aged 18-24 exiting foster care.
- Participants provided qualitative feedback on their experiences, perceived barriers, and recommendations for program improvement.
Main Results:
- Participants reported a positive experience, finding the intervention easy to use and supportive for reducing cigarette consumption.
- Key barriers to quitting included lack of coping skills and peer/family smoking.
- Suggestions for improvement included integrating tobacco quitlines, peer support from former foster youth, and resources for comorbid mental health issues.
Conclusions:
- Technology-based smoking cessation programs show promise as a feasible and scalable method to address tobacco use among youth in foster care.
- Addressing identified barriers and incorporating suggested adaptations could enhance intervention effectiveness.
- This approach may help reduce tobacco-related health disparities in this vulnerable population.
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