Randomized controlled trials for smoking cessation

Smoking poses a great threat to health, and smoking cessation is always a critical concern of health authorities; however, the effectiveness of smoking cessation programs has been limited. The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature related to smoking cessation programs. We searched for randomized controlled trial studies related to smoking cessation in the last 3 years, and 36 articles were reviewed. They were categorized into 3 types: 23 medication interventions (non-nicotine medicine/nicotine medicine), 9 non-technological interventions, and 4 technology-based interventions. The average cessation rate was higher with the non-nicotine medication approach than with the others. The 6-month and 1-year cessation rate were 47.4% and 26.8%, respectively. Varenicline and bupropion were the most commonly prescribed medications. The 6-month and 1-year cessation rates for nicotine replacement therapies were 33.3% and 30.0%, respectively. Nicotine patches and gum were used most frequently. Among the technology-based interventions, the telephone and text approach was used most often. The cessation rate could reach 30.0%. Of non-technological interventionss, cognitive-behavioral therapies were most common. The 6-month cessation rate could reach 57.1%. The side-effects and addiction potential of medications and nicotine replacement therapies should be noted. The results of the literature review revealed that there were strengths and limitations of the various interventions. Through the development of diverse intervention programs, we may be able to reach more people who need to cease smoking.