PREDICTING SMOKING CESSATION OUTCOME IN A MEDICAL-CENTER FROM STAGE OF READINESS - CONTEMPLATION VERSUS ACTION

Background. This study shows the clinical utility of Prochaska and DiC lemente's stages of readiness for treating nicotine dependence in a me dical center. Methods. Six hundred forty-eight patients were retrospec tively studied in either the contemplation or the action stage of read iness. Results. Statistical analysis showed the action stage to be the most significant predictor of smoking cessation at 6 months. Individu als in the action stage had twice the 6-month cessation rate as those in the contemplation stage (41.5% versus 20.3%, P < 0.001). Other sign ificant predictors of smoking cessation included a low Fagerstrom Tole rance Questionnaire score (less-than-or-equal-to 6) and the patient's report of a current disease but no past history of disease worsened by smoking. Conclusions. This study shows the potential clinical applica tion of this theoretical model for providing treatment for smokers. (C ) 1994 Academic Press, Inc.