Behavioral modification strategies for tobacco cessation: A scoping review

Abstract

Tobacco use remains a global public health challenge, with numerous associated health risks. Behavioral modification strategies have played a pivotal role in helping individuals achieve and maintain tobacco cessation. This scoping review aims to compare different behavioral modifications for tobacco cessation counseling. A literature search was performed in PubMed Central, Embase, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library up to 2023 to identify appropriate studies. Full text of original research articles, in vivo studies, randomized control trials, and observational studies were only included in the study. Eighteen articles fulfilled the inclusion criteria and articles were available through the electronic database. Tobacco cessation counseling depends heavily on behavioral modification, which provides individuals with an organized and evidence-based approach to quitting smoking. Various behavior change theories and models, such as the Transtheoretical Model, Social Cognition Model, and Theory of Planned Behavior, have been used to help people effectively stop smoking. Most studies used the Transtheoretical model for tobacco cessation since it assisted in quitting both smoking and smokeless tobacco users and can be beneficial in persuading individuals to quit tobacco usage. This scoping review reveals that Behavioral modification strategies have demonstrated their efficacy in facilitating tobacco cessation, providing valuable insights into the diverse approaches available to support individuals in quitting tobacco use.