The 13th World Conference on Tobacco OR Health

Objective: (1)To analyze the impact of the program on the use of pharmacotherapy and cessation rates in this minority immigrant population, (2) To test the hypothesis that providing free patches through community-based organizations will produce quit rates comparable to those achieved in clinical settings and (3) To explore the factors associated with smoking cessation.

Methods: 375 Chinese smokers were recruited via advertisements throughout the target community. Eligible smokers received a six-week course of nicotine patches. At three months, follow-up telephone interviews were conducted to assess quit rates and use of pharmacotherapy. Currently we are conducting 12 month follow up with carbon monoxide validation of self reported abstinence.

Results: Among 214 participants interviewed at three months, 41% reported quitting. Those factors associated with smoking cessation included the number of nicotine patches used, self efficacy, and length of quit attempts in the past twelve months. Those who quit smoking reported using 5 more nicotine patches than those who did not quit. Survey data from the 12 month follow up survey will be presented. Conclusion: At three month follow-up, quit rates are significantly higher than those previously reported for over the counter nicotine patches (8-10%) and comparable to those achieved in clinical practice. The results have important policy implications. Providing free medication increases access to effective cessation treatments for hard to reach populations. Community based organizations have the capacity to provide this treatment effectively and are a critical resource for dissemination of public health programs to immigrant communities.