A new study sheds some light on strategies that may help smokers in under-researched communities take steps to quit. Recently, researchers from Washington University in St. Louis led a study that looked at the potential impact that graphic cigarette labels might have in sparking social interaction around smoking cessation in American Indian/Alaska Natives communities. Published in BMJ Open, the study focused on how individuals perceived graphic warning labels on cigarettes and found that participants who saw graphic images were more likely to approach a friend or family member and discuss the idea of quitting smoking. Images that portrayed children or the physical harms of smoking drew the most reaction from participants.
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| Sample graphic warning labels (Used with author permission) |
Quitting smoking is still the number one way to improve overall health, and, increasingly, efforts that promote prevention and cessation can now be effectively tailored to meet the needs and concerns of specific populations.
A number of tailored cessation programs are offered through the federal government’s site, Smokefree.gov. In addition to the site’s free telephone counseling at 1-800-QUIT-NOW and text message program, smokefreetxt, it offers a number of specialty websites, including:
smokefreeVET: Focuses on why many veterans begin smoking, how and why to quit smoking, and how to transition back into the civilian lifestyle while quitting.
smokefreeWomen: Addresses the unique concerns of women who are considering or trying to quit smoking. The smokefreeMOM text messaging specifically helps pregnant women with quitting.
smokefreeTeen: Provides information to teenagers about the importance of choosing to quit and/or staying smoke free. The site focuses on both the immediate and long term impact of smoking on the health and lifestyle of teens.
smokefreeEspañol: Provides culturally appropriate tips and advice in Spanish on how to prepare for and begin quitting smoking.
Other health resources with information on smoking and its impact on health and wellness:
8 Ways to Prevent Cancer and Stay Healthy: This website highlights ways to lower your risk of certain cancers, including advice for quitting smoking.
Your Disease Risk: An interactive online tool designed to estimate your risk of important chronic diseases, which also offers personalized information about reducing your risk.