Life 1 year after a quit attempt: real-time reports of quitters and continuing smokers.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Smokers are often reluctant to quit because they fear long-lasting withdrawal. Yet little research prospectively examines smokers' withdrawal longer than 1 month post-quit.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to compare successful versus unsuccessful quitters' withdrawal, positive affect/pleasure, and lifestyle at 1 year post-quit.

Methods

Smokers (N = 572) in a cessation trial completed ecological momentary assessments four times a day for 1 week pre-quit, 1 week post-quit, and 1 week at 1 year post-quit.

Results

From pre-quit to 1 year later, only quitters reported sizeable declines in craving and restlessness, and fewer stressful events. At 1 year, quitters, on average, reported no significant craving. Continuing smokers reduced their cigarette cons

SUBMITTER: Schlam TR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3508178 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature