The viability of technology-based smoking cessation programs in developing countries: Findings from a survey in Ankara, Turkey

Little is known about the feasibility or acceptability of technology-based smoking cessation programs in middle-income countries.  Furthermore, given the relative cost-effectiveness of online versus paper surveys, the feasibility of online data collection in middle income countries has important implications for researchers.

148 currently smoking adults were recruited in Ankara, Turkey  Half completed the survey online and the other half via paper-and-pencil. About half of respondents (44%) were female, with an average age of 38 years.  About half of respondents (43%) reported smoking their first cigarette within 30 minutes of waking.  Over half (53%, n=79) reported a quit attempt of at least 24 hours in the past year. 

About one in three respondents indicated they were somewhat or extremely likely to access a text messaging-based smoking cessation program (35%) or an email-based smoking cessation program (34%) if it were available when they were trying to quit smoking.  Survey data was generally similar by mode (i.e., Internet or pencil-and-paper). Where differences were noted, they suggested that online respondents may be more likely to self-disclose socially undesirable answers (e.g., 27% of online respondents vs. 9% of paper respondents indicate they never intend to quit smoking, p=0.001). 

Many respondents express interest in utilizing technology-based treatments to aid in the cessation attempt. The application of new technologies to increase the access of evidence-based smoking cessation programs among smokers in middle income countries should be considered.  Use of cost-effective data collection methodologies such as online surveys appear valid.