Comparing Two Web-Based Smoking Cessation Programs
Author Information
Author(s): Norman Cameron McIntosh, Scott Selby, Peter Etter, Jean Francois Victor, Charles McKay, H Garth PhD, Danaher Brian G PhD, John R Seeley PhD, Edward Lichtenstein PhD, Jeff M Gau MS
Primary Institution: Oregon Research Institute
Hypothesis
The QSN online smoking cessation intervention would be more effective than a credible control condition.
Conclusion
The study found no significant differences in smoking abstinence between the two web-based programs at 3 and 6 months.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants in the QSN condition spent more time visiting the online program than those in the Active Lives condition.
- 60.8% of participants dropped out by the 6-month follow-up.
- Both conditions had similar rates of smoking abstinence at follow-up assessments.
Takeaway
The study tested two online programs to help people quit smoking, but neither was better than the other at helping people stop smoking.
Methodology
A two-arm randomized controlled trial comparing a smoking cessation program with an exercise enhancement program.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported smoking status and high attrition rates.
Limitations
High participant attrition rates and the complexity of the program may have affected engagement and outcomes.
Participant Demographics
Predominantly white, urban, 30- to 50-year-old married women with at least some college education.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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