| |
1-19 EFFECT OF DIAGNOSIS OF SMOKERS LUNG
"In our study, use of the words ‘smokers
lung’ instead of traditional terminology increased
smoking cessation. Referring directly to the cause of a
self-inflicted illness may be an effective way of
discouraging risk behavior, at negligible cost."
Lancet January 25,1997; 349: 253 1-19 EFFECT OF DIAGNOSIS OF SMOKERS LUNG
No effective treatment of smoking habits has yet been
documented in non-motivated patients.
This small prospective, controlled, randomized trial
analyzed whether simply using the term "smokers
lung" instead of traditional terminology when
talking to COPD patients would change their smoking
habits.
Consecutive patients (n=56) admitted with COPD were
allocated randomly to: 1) intervention group in which
their lung disease was designated as "smokers
lung" in information material and when talking with
patients, or 2) control group in which their lung disease
was designated as chronic bronchitis or emphysema.
Both groups were given the same instructions,
encouragement, and medical treatment. At one year 40% of
the treated group were abstaining vs 20% of the control
group. "In our study, use of the words ‘smokers
lung’ instead of traditional terminology increased
smoking cessation. Referring directly to the cause of a
self-inflicted illness may be an effective way of
discouraging risk behavior, at negligible cost."
Lancet January 25,1997;
349: 253 Research letter from the Rylung Group, Faaborg,
Denmark
Comment
Worth a try? The
benefit/harm-cost ratio may be high. RTJ
[index]
|
