First Steps to Smoke-free
Research type
Research Study
Full title
First steps to smoke-free: Using air-quality feedback to facilitate smoke-free homes through the NHS Lanarkshire First Steps Programme
IRAS ID
150095
Contact name
Sean Semple
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Aberdeen
Research summary
Exposure to second-hand smoke (SHS) in early life was damaging to lifelong health. Recent work had suggested that providing personalised data on the considerable adverse effect of smoking on household air quality could be a powerful motivator to changing behaviour. Building on the results of a feasibility study, this project aimed to utilise the NHS Lanarkshire First Steps Programme to test the efficacy of providing disadvantaged families with information about SHS levels in their own homes. Families enrolled in the First Steps programme and with at least one adults smoker would be invited to take part. Participants would be randomised to one of two groups. One group would receive a real-time graph of smoke levels in their home together with comparison data and advice on steps to reduce SHS levels in their home; with the other group receiving standard advice on SHS. Participants would be followed up at 1 and 6 months to determine changes in air quality, smoking behaviour and household smoking rules. Qualitative interviews would also be carried out to explore perceived benefits and barriers to change.
REC name
North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 2
REC reference
14/NS/0030
Date of REC Opinion
20 Mar 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion