A systematic review and narrative summary of couple-based smoking cessation interventions

Abstract

Background: Smoking is formed and reinforced in social networks. Smoking interventions have incorporated social networks, especially partners, to promote smoking cessation. This review provides a synthesized review on the effectiveness of couple-based smoking cessation interventions. Methods: A systematic review of peer-reviewed studies of experimental, couple-based smoking cessation interventions, published in English, was conducted. Database searching of CINAHL, PubMed, and SCOPUS and citation review resulted in 2170 articles for reviews. Abstract and initial review screening excluded 2,126, leaving 44 for full-text review. Further exclusions based on type of intervention and reported outcomes left a total of 11 studies to be included in the analysis. Results: Two major outcomes were reported among the 11 studies: long-term quit rates (≥6 months post-intervention) and aspects of the couple’s relationship (e.g., satisfaction, adjustment, and partner support). Only two studies showed significant differences in long-term quit rates compared to control groups. Five studies reported outcomes of couples’ relationships, yet none of the five promoted partner support in the intervention, which may have limited the effectiveness of couple-based interventions. One study observed higher levels of partner support among quitters than continued smokers. A large heterogeneity of target populations was also observed. Conclusions: Current literature does not support the effectiveness of couple-based smoking interventions. Future studies need to re-evaluate the role of partners and partner support to facilitate effective partner support and increase the likelihood of success in smoking cessation among smoker couples. Limitations of the current literature and suggestions for future research are discussed.