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Abstract
Introduction: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), smoking is the leading preventable cause of death worldwide. Currently, more than five million deaths per year are directly attributed to cigarette use, corresponding to approximately 10,000 deaths per day.2 Additionally, the WHO reports that 600,000 people die each year due to passive smoking.
Methodology: A prospective quantitative study was conducted in Basic Health Units with groups of 8 to 12 participants. Four sessions per month were carried out at the basic health units in Lahore to educate, motivate and provide necessary medication to support the smokers in tobacco cessation program. The healthcare professionals along with the physicians provided every help to the smokers in the cessation program. The program was fully supported by NHSR&C, DRAP and ANF.
Result: There was great acceptance and adherence of the program among the smokers in the first quartile the participation and adherence rate was more than 70% which continued in the second and third quartile the overall participation and adherence ratio was more than 62%.
Discussion: The tobacco cessation program prove to be very effective as health professional, motivational speakers and family cooperated with the tobacco cessation team. The tobacco cessation program has produced tangible improvements in participants’ lifestyles and health outcomes. Conclusion: It is recommended that the tobacco cessation program be expanded to all health units and maintained continuously within the municipality to promote public health and improve quality of life.