Smoking cessation and cancer.

OBJECTIVES

To provide an overview of scientifically based smoking cessation interventions for delivery to all tobacco-dependent users.

DATA SOURCES: Research studies, published articles, and government reports.

CONCLUSION

Smoking cessation interventions for patients with cancer remain poorly described with only a few studies investigating the efficacy of smoking cessation among this population. However, data suggest that quitting smoking after the diagnosis of cancer improves survival and quality of life.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Nurses serve a critical role in tobacco-dependence treatment. Innovative interventions for cessation, such as quit lines, telephone counseling, web-based information, and computerized cessation materials are now available.