NZ study shows that text messages help young people quit smoking

Last Updated 02/06/2005, 02:34:52

Telephone text messaging is an effective way of helping young smokers kick the habit, according to a New Zealand study.

The Auckland University study showed twice the number of young smokers receiving text support on their mobile phones kicked the habit compared with others who did not receive the support.

Quit rates after six weeks were 28 per cent for the texting group and 13 per cent for the rest of the 1,705 young smokers who took part in the two year study starting in 2002.

Half of the participants received intensive text messages leading up to an agreed quitting date, as well as one month of free text messaging.

The director of the university's clinical trials research unit, Anthony Rodgers, said the free text service acted as a distraction.

People also picked up on text buddies, people who were due to quit around the same day.

"This is a very encouraging result," Dr Rodgers said.

"We want to develop the concept further, but this trial confirms that a text-based approach has the potential to be a powerful resource in reaching and helping young smokers."

About half the text messages related to quitting, such as urges and weight gain, and the other half were of general interest, including sport, music and fashion.

After six months 25 per cent of the texting group were still not smoking, but Dr Rodgers said further study was needed to gauge their progress.

Radio Australia