Smoking cessation online program: A randomized controlled trial to test the effectiveness and the feasibility of Facebook platform to reduce smoking among Syrian young adults. - Trial ANZCTR12622000318785

Timeline & Enrollment

Primary Outcome

Smoking cessation outcome by a study-specific tool based on standard smoking cessation outcome by (Piper., et al). ;; Readiness to quit smoking by the readiness ruler tool. ;; Behavioral intention to quit smoking by the Behavioral intention to quit smoking tool (Landrum Sterling et al., 2007)

Summary

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are dominating the cause of death out of illness in Syria. Reducing that percentage should start by fighting NCDs risk factors. Smoking is considered one of the top causes of NCDs. With smoking reaching alarming levels among Syrian youth and the lack of smoking cessation programs, the dominance of NCDs is likely to continue. Implementing a smoking cessation program should be driven out of evidence on its effectiveness and its feasibility especially in a low resources environment. Online based-programs adhere to social distancing procedures imposed by the current COVID-19 pandemic. Plus, it has the capability of reaching a highly displaced population. Facebook is the most popular social media among Syrian youth. That’s why this smoking cessation program will rely on Facebook to make use of its popularity. For that purpose, a closed group will be established and run by two coordinators. This group will have a sample of 60 Syrian youth smokers. In addition, it will have up to ten peers who were able to quit smoking previously. The two coordinators will post two posts daily. The first post will be in the following categories: the evidence-based way to quit smoking, the harmful effects of smoking, the beneficial effects of quitting smoking. The second one, however, will be a post to motivate participants and peers to engage with each other’s stories. All members of the group will be encouraged at all times to share their stories, concerns, and challenges. An additional treatment option will be offered for participants to engage in a one-on-one e-meeting with one of the clinical practitioners to receive a personalized consultation. This option will be offered to whoever of the participants who ask for it and for as many times as the participants require. This study will offer evidence for policymakers on the effectiveness and the feasibility of establishing social support in the future to fight the smoking epidemic. It will also guide future research in terms of other behavioral changes such as alcohol reduction, depression, suicide prevention.

ICD-10 Classifications