December/January 2012/2013 (vol. 09/4)

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Research Plus

Electronic aids to smoking cessation

Internet, computer programmes and electronic aids, such as telephone text messaging, improve the chances of effective smoking cessation, and are cost effective, but the effect is small, this systematic review and meta-analysis finds. Seventy-seven papers from 60 randomised controlled trials met inclusion criteria. Computer-based and other electronic aids increase the likelihood of cessation compared with no intervention or generic self-help materials (relative risk of prolonged abstinence = 1.32; 95% CI 1.21– 1.45). The chance of quitting long term improves dramatically if participants get through the first month without smoking. Despite the relatively small effect, making such interventions available is highly cost effective. There is insufficient evidence to determine which types of intervention are most effective.

 

Health Technology Assessment 2012; 16(38): 1–205. http://www.nets.nihr.ac.uk/programmes/hta

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Occupational Health at Work December/January 2012/2013 (vol. 09/4) pp41