Peer mentoring for smoking cessation in public housing: A mixed-methods study

• DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1052313
• Publication Date: 2023-01-05T14:53:54Z
• Authors: Jummai Apata; Erica Goldman; Hamideh Taraji; Oluwatobi Samagbeyi; Shervin Assari; Payam Sheikhattari
• Keywords: Peer mentoring

Tobacco use disproportionately affects low-income African American communities. The recent public housing smoke-free policy has increased the demand for effective smoking cessation services and programs in such settings.This mixed-method pilot study explored feasibility potential impact of a peer-mentoring program unit. quantitative used quasi-experimental design while qualitative data were collected via focus group discussions with peer mentors participants. Three residents complex trained as mentors. Each mentor recruited up to 10 smokers residence provided them individual support 12 weeks. All participants offered Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT). A follow-up investigation was conducted 3 months after completion 12-week intervention. At baseline follow-up, participants' status measured using self-report verified exhaled carbon monoxide (eCO) monitoring.The intervention composed 30 current who received control 14 individuals. Overall mean eCO levels dropped from 26 ppm (SD 19.0) at 6.0) (P < 0.01). Participants enrolled our more likely have non-smoking (<7 ppm) (23.3%) compared those did not enroll (14.3%).Our is feasible predominantly Using peers may be helpful providing hard-to-reach populations. Given non-randomized study, randomized trials are needed test efficacy future.