Miriam Hospital Researchers Launch State of the Art Smoking Cessation Program for Smokers with Mobility Impairments

Posted Wednesday, January 30, 2013

• Research study aimed at smokers who use a wheelchair, cane, leg braces or walker
• Smoking prevalence is twice as high in adults with mobility impairments vs. adults without mobility impairments
• First study to help people with mobility impairments quit smoking; nicotine patches are provided at no cost

People with mobility impairments – or those who rely on mobility aids, such as a wheelchair, cane, or scooter – have significantly higher smoking rates than the general population. Although smoking cessation programs are available for people in other underserved groups, none currently exist for individuals with mobility impairments. These smokers may face unique barriers to quitting smoking, such as transportation and access issues, pain and fatigue.

That’s why researchers with The Miriam Hospital’s Centers for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine are looking for smokers with mobility impairments to participate in a new, home-based study called “Active Behaviors for Living Empowered (ABLE): A Program for Smokers with Mobility Impairment.”

Requirements for participation include: 

• Current smoker

• Use equipment to get around, such as a cane, brace, scooter, or wheelchair

• 18 years of age or older

• Ability to speak and read English

Participants will receive one of two different behavioral treatments mailed to their homes, and will be financially compensated for their time. If smokers are not ready to quit smoking, the treatments will focus on alleviating stress and other barriers to quitting smoking. If they are ready to quit smoking, participants will receive nicotine patches at no charge.

Project ABLE is funded by the National Cancer Institute.

For more information about Project ABLE, please contact 1-855-401-ABLE (2253) OR email ABLE@lifespan.org.

Filed under: Miriam, Research,