Anti-smoking intervention performed by cardiologist during ambulatory care

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of nicotine patches as a strategy to help patients quit smoking in the cardiovascular clinic. METHODS: The population studied was composed of 100 patients (50 women and 50 men). The strategy included medical consultation, Fangerstron escore application and prescription of nicotine patches. Nicotine patches were continuously used for 8 to 12 weeks, with progressive concentration reduction releasing 21, 14, and 7mg/day. RESULTS: The abstinence rate one year later was 41% confirmed by carbon monoxide exhaled air concentration. CONCLUSION: Nicotine patches are safe, and well tolerated and, for these reasons, should be more frenquently prescribed by cardiologists to help patients quit smoking.