Financial strain and smoking cessation among racially/ethnically diverse smokers

Making Education Easy

Authors:

Kendzor DE et al

June 13, 2010

Summary:

These researchers evaluated the influence of financial strain on smoking cessation among 424 Latino, African American, and Caucasian smokers of predominantly low socioeconomic status, who were enrolled in a smoking cessation study. They were followed from 1 week prequit through 26 weeks postquit. Greater financial strain at baseline predicted lower cessation rates at 26 weeks postquit among those who completed the study (OR 0.77; p=0.01).

Comment:

With the recent focus on smoking cessation in Aotearoa, I thought it important to showcase recent evidence on ‘what works’. Because although increasing the price of tobacco through taxes is effective for some populations (such as teenagers and people who have access to quality cessation treatment), it’s not the case for others (those well down the addiction road). As this study shows, people are less likely to stop smoking when already under financial strain. Smoking cessation strategies must also reduce inequalities in smoking rates between Māori and non-Māori; given the results from this study, ways to address financial strain in smoking cessation interventions are required in order to achieve this.

Reference: With the recent focus on smoking cessation in Aotearoa, I thought it important to showcase recent evidence on ‘what works’. Because although increasing the price of tobacco through taxes is effective for some populations (such as teenagers and people who have access to quality cessation treatment), it’s not the case for others (those well down the addiction road). As this study shows, people are less likely to stop smoking when already under financial strain. Smoking cessation strategies must also reduce inequalities in smoking rates between Māori and non-Māori; given the results from this study, ways to address financial strain in smoking cessation interventions are required in order to achieve this.

Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.

Financial strain and smoking cessation among racially/ethnically diverse smokers

Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

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Financial strain and smoking cessation among racially/ethnically diverse smokers

Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

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