Randomised trial of a GP-initiated tobacco control intervention with Arabic-speaking smokers [ 2004 - 2006 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Dr Seham Girgis (Principal investigator) ,  Prof Jeanette Ward ,  Prof Nicholas Zwar

Brief description Previous estimates of smoking rates among Arabic-speakers men and women range from 43% to 55%. No intervention has been designed specifically to target smoking in this community. Barriers to smoking cessation among Arabic-speakers are poorly understood. GPs find it difficult to counsel smokers about their smoking. Even when they do, they are as likely to use ineffective strategies. An alternative approach is referral of smokers by GPs to a smoking cessation skilled in evidence-based behavioural strategies to facilitate abstinence. Therefore, we propose to conduct a randomised controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of referral of smokers attending general practices who offer consultation in Arabic to an Arabic-speaking counsellor for intensive support to improve quit rates at six and twelve months. We also will assess the acceptability of the intervention to smokers and GPs. Participating Arabic-speaking GPs in SWS will refer to the study about 1050 Arabic men and women aged between 18 and 65 years who self-report being current smokers. Participants will receive either intensive smoking cessation intervention or usual care provided by their GPs and self-help written information. The Intensive intervention will involve usual care by GPs and intensive smoking cessation counselling program that will involve series of scheduled telephone calls from an Arabic-speaking counsellor trained in smoking cessation counselling; printed self-help material in Arabic script and also will be offered a home visit and face-to-face counselling session. Results from this randomised trial will add to the scarce literature about smoking cessation among ethnic CALD minorities in Australia and overseas. If proven to be effective, a new choice will have been emerged to achieve optimal tobacco control in ethnic minorities in general practice. Divisions could consider employing bilingual counsellors as a resource for all GPs in their region.

Funding Amount $AUD 232,000.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant