Cigarette smokers’ perceptions of smoking cessation and associated factors in Karachi, Pakistan

Objectives: The study explored the perceptions of adult smokers with cardiovascular and respiratory diseases regarding cigarette smoking cessation. We also explored factors that may hinder or facilitate smoking cessation process. Design: Qualitative descriptive exploratory design. Sample: Purposive sample of 13 adult smokers with cardiovascular or respiratory diseases visiting outpatient cardiac and respiratory clinics at a private tertiary care hospital. Measurements: In-depth, face-to-face, and semi-structured interviews were conducted. The interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim followed by a six steps process of manual thematic analysis of data. Results: Meaningful statements were assigned codes and grouped into categories. Categories were clustered under three themes representing individual factors, socio-cultural factors, and institutional factors. Conclusions: Smoking cessation is influenced by personal, cultural, as well as social aspects. Institutionally, there is a need to recognize that smoking is a learned behavior; hence, prohibiting public smoking will potentially contribute to non-smoking behaviors. Although the nature of misconceptions varies, this is imperative to ensure consistency in messaging, programming, and supports led by healthcare professionals.