Situation survey of nonsmoking at one workplace

In the "A" COOP, with which we have had an occupational medicine contract for a long time, we have advocated the significance of "no smoking" in health examinations, medical treatments, and at various kinds of study meetings. Individually, we have helped many smokers become non smokers, but smoking, especially in young persons, has increased. On the occasion of World No Smoking Day this year, the Non Smoking Physicians and Dentists League (Miyagi Branch), aided in carrying out the questionnaire survey with regard to "the reason of no smoking success". First of all, from health examinations results from 1995 to 1997, we extracted persons who replied in the former "smoking", and in the latter "former smokers". They numbered 31. We sent these people survey forms, and requested their reply with regard to reasons for their lack of success at quitting smoking. We found thirteen people - 7 men and 6 women replied. Number of quitting attempts: once - 3 people; twice to four times - 7 people; more than five times - 2 people. Motivations for quitting: troublesome to others - 6 people; understanding of the harm - 4 people; recommendation from family or friends - 3 people; illness - 2 people; recommendation of physician - 1 person; birth of child - 1 person. Reason for smoking resumption: alcohol - 7 people; irritation/withdrawal - 7 people; recommendation of others - 4 people; weight gain - 3 people; coffee - 2 people. Strategies: gum - 7 people; water, tea, coffee - 5 people; patience - 5 people. Reasons for success: declaration - 4 people; family support - 2 people; changed life pattern - 2 people; discard smoking articles - 1 person; party absence - 1 person. Quitting benefits: improved health and body condition - 7 people; taste - 6 people, no anxiety about others' feelings - 6 people; no nausea while brushing teeth - 6 people; increased pocket money - 5 people. Referring to the aforementioned result, we will be strengthening health guidance to smokers.