Effectiveness of tobacco cessation interventions delivered in clinical settings in South Asia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Pranil Man Singh Pradhan, Mark P Funnell, Reshu Agrawal Sagtani et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of tobacco cessation interventions in clinical settings across South Asia, including 37 studies (22 randomized). The analysis found significantly higher quit rates for continuous abstinence at 0-3 months (RR: 1.21) and >3 months (RR: 1.68), and for point abstinence at >3 months (RR: 2.03).
Key findings
- Higher quit rates for continuous abstinence at 0-3 months (RR: 1.21, 95%CI: 1.06 to 1.37).
- Significantly higher quit rates for continuous abstinence >3 months (RR: 1.68, 95%CI: 1.14 to 2.47).
- Point abstinence >3 months post-intervention showed a quit rate increase (RR: 2.03, 95%CI: 1.35 to 3.08).
- Combined behavioral and pharmacotherapy interventions were most effective (RR: 1.70, 95%CI: 0.98 to 2.92).
Why it matters
The findings underscore the importance of implementing effective tobacco cessation interventions in clinical settings, particularly in regions like South Asia where access to cessation support is limited. Enhanced cessation efforts can significantly reduce tobacco-related health burdens.
What to keep in mind
The evidence is limited by methodological weaknesses across the included studies.