A recent multicenter trial from Turkey has shed light on the positive impact of immediately referring chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma patients who smoke to smoking cessation clinics. The study, presented at the annual European Respiratory Society Congress, revealed significantly improved quit rates among patients who were given immediate appointments at outpatient smoking cessation clinics compared to those who received usual care. This groundbreaking research highlights the importance of integrating smoking cessation aid into routine care for patients with chronic airway diseases.
The trial included nearly 400 smokers recruited from respiratory clinics, with self-reported quit rates at 3 months reaching 27% for patients who were randomized to immediate appointments at smoking cessation clinics, as opposed to 17% with usual care. Notably, a five-fold increase in quit rates was observed in the group that received evidence-based smoking cessation assistance. At the 3-month mark, a significantly higher percentage of patients in the immediate-appointment group had visited smoking cessation clinics and received evidence-based medication to support their quitting journey.
Participants in the study were adults with a diagnosis of COPD, asthma, or bronchiectasis who had been smokers for at least 6 months. While both groups received brief smoking cessation recommendations, the intervention arm was promptly scheduled for appointments at smoking cessation clinics, offering them free access to smoking cessation therapy. Patients with active psychiatric disorders, impaired cognitive function, or those already using smoking cessation aids were excluded from the study.
Access to evidence-based treatment options, including nicotine replacement therapy and bupropion, was provided to patients in the immediate-appointment group. The study highlighted the importance of pharmacotherapy approved for smoking cessation in improving quit rates among COPD and asthma patients. Higher rates of NRT and bupropion usage were observed in the immediate-appointment arm compared to the control group.
One of the main limitations of the study was the lack of biochemical verification of tobacco cessation. Additionally, the sustainability of quit rates at longer follow-up periods remains a question. Nevertheless, the findings of this trial underscore the significance of immediate referrals to smoking cessation clinics for patients with chronic airway diseases.
The study from Turkey demonstrates the substantial benefit of linking COPD and asthma patients who smoke to smoking cessation clinics for improved quit rates. Integrating smoking cessation aid into routine care for patients with chronic airway diseases can lead to significant positive outcomes in terms of smoking cessation and long-term health benefits. This research emphasizes the importance of providing evidence-based support and treatment options to help patients kick the habit and improve their overall respiratory health.
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