FACTOR ASSOCIATED WITH INTENTION TO QUIT SMOKING AND NEEDING HELP TO QUIT SMOKING AMONG 112 MALAY MALE CURRENT SMOKERS
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Most smokers intend to quit smoking however there are many barriers such as low self-efficacy at a personal level, smoking being regarded as a cultural norm and also lack of support to quit smoking from family and the health service provider. Thus the intention to quit is associated with many contributing factors.
Methodology: This was cross sectional study carried out among smokers from two government offices in Klang Valley. A self-administered questionnaire was developed and used to determine respondents’ characteristics (age, marital status, level of education, income, job position and nature of job) and matters related to quit smoking attempts (need help to quit smoking, know of quit smoking clinic, advice to quit by family members and doctor, nicotine dependence and type of smoker). Chi squared test was used to test for associations.
Results: A total of 112 responded to the study. There was no association between the intention to quit smoking and respondents’ characteristics. There were significant associations between intention to quit smoking and needing help to quit smoking, being advised by family member to quit smoking and nicotine dependence. Among those who want to quit smoking, there were association between those who need help to quit smoking and nicotine dependence, cotinine saliva level and difficulty to quit smoking because of addiction.
Conclusion: Most smokers intend to quit smoking and need help to do so, but were not aware of the quit smoking clinic services. Advice from family members show positive influence on quit smoking intention. Therefore it is recommended that quit smoking efforts should promote quit smoking services and include involvement of family members of smokers.
Keywords: intention to quit smoking, quit smoking services, family influences