Cost-effectiveness of in-hospital motivational smoking cessation counselling and proactive referral to community-based follow-up.

In 30 seconds

This multicenter randomized controlled trial evaluated the cost-effectiveness of in-hospital motivational smoking cessation counselling with proactive community referral among hospitalized patients with atherosclerotic vascular disease. The intervention resulted in a 6-month continuous abstinence rate of 49.5% compared to 24.5% for brief advice. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was €3094 per life-year gained.

Key findings

• The intervention group had a 6-month continuous abstinence rate of 49.5% vs. 24.5% in the control group.
• The incremental gain in life expectancy was 1.06 years for the intervention group.
• The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was €3094 per life-year gained.
• The net monetary benefit at a willingness-to-pay threshold was €37,475.

Why it matters

This study highlights the potential for structured smoking cessation interventions in hospital settings to improve patient outcomes and may inform healthcare policies aimed at reducing smoking-related morbidity and mortality.