Trends in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy
https://trends.org.br/article/doi/10.1590/S2237-60892012000400009
Trends in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy
Case Report

Tobacco chippers seeking assistance for smoking cessation: a case series

Tobacco chippers em busca de auxílio para parar de fumar: série de casos

Gabriel Natan Pires; Luciana Rizzieri Figueiró; Maristela Ferigolo; Helena Maria Tannhauser Barros; Denise Conceição Mesquita Dantas

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Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To describe a series of cases of tobacco chippers (TCs) who sought assistance for smoking cessation. DESCRIPTION OF CASES: We describe the case of three TCs who participated in a free quit-smoking support group. Smokers answered self-administered questionnaires covering sociodemographic data, smoking history, nicotine dependence, perceived health status, and motivational stages. Of the 183 smokers enrolled in the program, three (1.6%) were considered TCs. All three were women and reported alcohol use, although at low frequencies. Two of them reported the presence of potentially tobacco-related disease. All TCs presented light nicotine dependence and reported difficulties quitting smoking. All dropped out after the first group meeting. COMMENTS: This study describes a subgroup of smokers not extensively described in the literature: TCs seeking assistance for smoking cessation, with some degree of nicotine dependence, and who do not adhere to regular group therapy. Interventions aimed at this population may be an interesting strategy for smoking cessation.

Keywords

Tobacco chippers, smoking, dependence, cessation, case series

Resumo

OBJETIVO: Descrever uma série de casos de tobacco chippers (TCs) que buscaram auxílio para cessação do hábito de fumar. DESCRIÇÃO DOS CASOS: São descritos três casos de TCs que participaram de um grupo de apoio terapêutico a tabagistas. Os participantes responderam questionários autoaplicados que incluíam questões sobre dados sociodemográficos, histórico de tabagismo, dependência à nicotina, estado de saúde percebido e estágios motivacionais. Dos 183 tabagistas inscritos no grupo, três (1,6%) foram considerados TCs. Todos os três casos eram mulheres e relataram o uso de álcool, embora em frequências baixas. Duas relataram a presença de doenças potencialmente relacionadas ao uso do tabaco. Todas apresentavam baixos níveis de dependência à nicotina e relataram dificuldades em parar de fumar. Todas desistiram do tratamento após a primeira sessão. COMENTÁRIOS: Este estudo descreve um subgrupo de fumantes ainda não muito explorado na literatura: TCs que buscam auxílio para cessação do hábito de fumar, apresentam algum grau de dependência à nicotina e não aderem à terapia de grupo tradicional. Intervenções direcionadas especificamente a essa população podem ser uma estratégia interessante para a cessação do hábito de fumar.

Palavras-chave

Tobacco chippers, tabagismo, dependência, abandono do uso de tabaco, série de casos

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