Muang

In Lao People's Democratic Republic, tobacco smoking is common among adult men and women, creating an urgent need for effective and sustainable quitting methods. This study is evaluating a mobile health (mHealth) intervention designed to help adults quit smoking cigarettes. The project includes two phases: an initial phase to adapt the intervention to local culture and language, and a second phase to test the intervention's effectiveness through a randomized controlled trial (RCT) with adult smokers from two hospitals in Laos. The intervention involves two treatment groups. One group receives standard care, which includes brief advice, self-help materials based on WHO guidelines, and a two-week supply of nicotine patches. The other group receives the same standard care plus a fully automated smartphone program delivering personalized messages, images, and videos designed to boost motivation, coping skills, and reduce withdrawal symptoms over 26 weeks. The first phase also includes formative research like interviews and focus groups to tailor the intervention content. Participants complete baseline assessments via tablet and receive training on smartphone use if needed. They will be followed for 12 months, with treatment lasting 6 months. Researchers will monitor smoking status, using biochemical confirmation of abstinence at 12 months as the main outcome. Weekly smartphone assessments will track participants' motivation and smoking behaviors. The study also aims to build local research capacity and improve tobacco cessation services in Laos.