From planning to action in smoking cessation: Demographic and psychological symptom dimensions related to readiness to quit smoking

In Mexico, over 10 million persons are currently smokers. The motivation to quit smoking can be associated with individual and mental health factors. The aim of this study was to determine which variables related to smoking behavior, demographics, and current psychological symptoms distinguish highly motivated smokers (action stage) from less motivated smokers (planning stage) according to the readiness-to-quit model. 108 current smokers with no psychiatric diagnoses and no previous specialized attention for smoking cessation were interviewed. Nicotine dependence, readiness to quit, and psychological symptoms were assessed. Nicotine dependence was low to moderate (94.5%). Fewer depressive symptoms and smoking fewer cigarettes per day were the most important predictors for action motivation to quit. In assessing the motivation to quit smoking, individual demographic, background, and psychological characteristics should be considered since they can hinder the smoking cessation intervention.