THE TRIPLER TOBACCO-CESSATION PROGRAM - PREDICTORS FOR SUCCESS AND IMPROVED EFFICACY

This study analyzed differences in baseline, course of treatment, and post-quit variables of participants in a tobacco-cessation program to identify factors predictive of outcome that could be used as a focus f or intervention, The program offered a 10-week course of transdermal n icotine replacement combined with education and cognitive/behavioral t herapy in a group format at a major military medical center, Demonstra ted differences were found among abstainers, early relapsers, and late relapsers in age-initiated tobacco use, use of liquor, levels of exha led carbon monoxide at intake, tobacco use during the program, and per ceived reasons for relapse, The abstinence rate at follow-up was 27%, Based on our findings, we discuss recommendations to improve treatment , This information is offered as a model to evaluate and improve the e fficacy of established clinic-based tobacco-cessation programs.