Self-determination Plus Instant Messaging for Smokers With Cancer

Launched by CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG · Dec 7, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new way to help people with cancer who smoke to quit smoking. The researchers want to see if allowing participants to choose their own quit schedule, along with receiving regular instant messages about quitting, will help them stop smoking more effectively than just giving them advice to quit right away. The trial will involve nearly 1,450 smokers with cancer, who will be recruited from outpatient clinics in Hong Kong.

To be eligible, participants need to be at least 18 years old, have smoked weekly for the last six months, and have been diagnosed with any stage of cancer for at least six months. They should also be able to communicate in Cantonese and use a smartphone for instant messaging. Those who join the study will receive either personalized support and messaging or standard advice to quit smoking immediately, along with helpful pamphlets. This study aims to find out which approach is more effective in helping smokers with cancer quit successfully.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • smoked weekly in the last 6 months,
• • diagnosed with any cancer for at least 6 months and at all cancer stages (I, II, III, or IV),
• • aged 18 years or above and can communicate in Cantonese, and
• • own a smartphone and able to use instant messaging (e.g. WhatsApp or WeChat)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • individuals with unstable medical conditions, poor cognitive state, or mental illness as advised by the doctor in charge and noted on their medical records, and
• • those participating in other smoking cessation programmes.

Trial Officials