Tobacco cesssation - as we want it! An interview study with young people

Abstract

Background Smoking among teenagers and young people is still common and about every third young smoker states that they want to quit smoking. There are no obvious evidence-based methods for tobacco cessation for young people, and therefore, the same methods are used for young people as well as adults. The aim was to study young people's views about what support they would like for quit smoking, with the intention of developing a model for tobacco cessation for young people through interviews with the target groups. Methods A qualitative study using a descriptive and exploratory design was conducted. Young smokers 16 - 29 years old (n=25) were interviewed in five focus groups in southern Sweden. Data were analyzed by content analysis. Results The results illuminate young people's suggestions to develop a model for tobacco cessation. Four main categories emerged; Existing support rejected - existing apps, support- by SMS, and self-help brochures did not appeal to young people. Agreement between friends - To sign an agreement between two friends which included a fee on relapse. A dult support - To organize the model with duo groups and give adapted support. Celebrate and competition - Lift the positive with the freedom of smoke and create the opportunity to win simple prizes to celebrate the achieved interim goals. Conclusions The young people suggested that the model for tobacco cessation would contain adult support and involves an agreement between friends and has elements of celebration and competition. The challenge will be to implement this model into environments where young people live.

Keywords

• WCTOH