Philippine E-Journals

Effect of auricular acupressure in smoking cessation among young adults

Estella Grace M. Viguilla

Discipline: Health

 

Abstract:

Introduction Auricular acupressure is one of the alternative modalities used for relieving withdrawal symptoms caused by substance abuse and addiction. However, its efficacy remains inconclusive due to scarcity of evidence and further exploration of its effect is needed. This study aimed to determine the effect of auricular acupressure in smoking cessation among young adults.

Methods This was a quasi-experimental study involving adults aged 18 to 45 years at the College of Allied Rehabilitation Sciences. Thirty eligible participants were recruited and included in the study. The Brief Questionnaire of Smoking Urges was used to assess the cravings to smoke and the Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence, to measure the level of nicotine dependence. The secondary outcome measured was the number of cigarettes smoked per day.

Results Repeated Measures ANOVA showed a significant decrease in the level of craving, cigarette consumption and nicotine dependence at the end of the three-week intervention that remained consistent until the fourth week.

Conclusion This study suggests that auricular acupressure may be an effective intervention for smoking cessation by decreasing the level of cravings to smoke, consumption of cigarette and nicotine dependence that may lead to complete abstinence.