Continuous Abstinence Rates in Smoking Cessation - Smoking Cessation

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Could you please clarify if there is a specific term you are referring to?


When discussing the effectiveness of smoking cessation monitoring, are there specific terms used to describe the duration and rate of continuous non-smoking status, such as the 28-day continuous abstinence rate and the 90-day continuous abstinence rate? Additionally, could you please provide the Chinese translations for these two terms? Thank you very much.

Neve, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/11/18

Dr. Li Fuchun reply Smoking Cessation


The continuous abstinence rate refers to the proportion of individuals who have remained smoke-free throughout a specific period.
In contrast, the point abstinence rate indicates the proportion of individuals who are not smoking on a particular day.
When evaluating the effectiveness of a smoking cessation method, the continuous abstinence rate is considered more appropriate.
Thank you for your guidance.
Sincerely, Li Fu-Chun, Department of Family Medicine, Fengyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2003/11/18

More Info


In the context of smoking cessation, the terms "28-day continuous abstinence rate" and "90-day continuous abstinence rate" are indeed specific metrics used to evaluate the effectiveness of smoking cessation interventions. These terms refer to the percentage of individuals who have successfully abstained from smoking for a continuous period of 28 days or 90 days, respectively, after a quit attempt.
In Chinese, these terms can be translated as follows:
- "28-day continuous abstinence rate" translates to "28天持續戒菸率" (28 tiān chíxù jièyān lǜ).

- "90-day continuous abstinence rate" translates to "90天持續戒菸率" (90 tiān chíxù jièyān lǜ).

These metrics are critical in clinical research and practice because they provide a clear and quantifiable measure of a person's ability to remain smoke-free over a specified period. Continuous abstinence is generally considered a more reliable indicator of long-term cessation success compared to point prevalence abstinence, which only assesses whether an individual is smoke-free at a specific moment in time.

The significance of these rates lies in their ability to predict long-term smoking cessation success. Research indicates that individuals who maintain continuous abstinence for 28 days are more likely to remain smoke-free in the long term. Similarly, achieving a 90-day continuous abstinence is often associated with a higher likelihood of remaining smoke-free for years to come.
When monitoring the effectiveness of smoking cessation programs, healthcare providers often utilize these rates to assess the impact of various interventions, such as counseling, pharmacotherapy (like nicotine replacement therapy or prescription medications), and behavioral support. The goal is to help individuals not only quit smoking but also maintain that cessation over time, thereby reducing the risk of smoking-related diseases, including lung cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory illnesses.

It is also important to note that the experience of withdrawal symptoms during the cessation process can vary significantly among individuals. Factors such as the duration of smoking history, the amount smoked, and individual physiological differences can influence the severity and type of withdrawal symptoms experienced. Common withdrawal symptoms include irritability, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, increased appetite, and cravings for nicotine. Understanding these symptoms can help individuals prepare for the challenges of quitting and seek appropriate support.

In conclusion, the "28-day continuous abstinence rate" and "90-day continuous abstinence rate" are essential metrics in smoking cessation efforts, providing valuable insights into the effectiveness of interventions and the likelihood of long-term success. By focusing on these rates, healthcare providers can better support individuals in their journey to quit smoking and improve their overall health outcomes.

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