Understanding Why Women Drop Out of Smoking Cessation Trials
Author Information
Author(s): Leeman Robert F, Quiles Zandra N, Molinelli Laurence A, Terwal Donna Medaglia, Nordstrom Beth L, Garvey Arthur J, Kinnunen Taru
Primary Institution: Yale University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
What baseline characteristics affect the likelihood of dropout in a smoking cessation trial for females?
Conclusion
Demographic factors, particularly having children at home and educational attainment, significantly predict dropout rates in smoking cessation trials for women.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants with at least one child living at home were at increased risk of dropout.
- Non-Whites were more likely to drop out early.
- Not having a college degree increased the risk of late dropout.
- Older participants were less likely to drop out early.
- Weight concerns and feelings of guilt were associated with higher dropout rates.
Takeaway
This study found that women with kids at home are more likely to stop participating in smoking cessation programs, and those who didn't finish college are also at risk of dropping out.
Methodology
Participants were recruited and analyzed based on demographic, smoking-related, and psychological characteristics to identify predictors of attrition.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-selection of participants and the specific demographic focus.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be generalizable beyond the specific demographic of female smokers in the Boston area.
Participant Demographics
Majority were single, employed, and had an average smoking history of 21 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 0.41–0.97
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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