Helping smokers with cancer quit using self-determination and messaging
Official title: Efficacy of a Self-determination Theory-based Smoking Cessation Intervention Plus Instant Messaging Via Mobile Application for Smokers With Cancer: A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT05643469 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a new way of helping smokers with cancer quit by letting them choose their own quit plan and providing support through instant messaging can be more effective than other methods.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 1448 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Chinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 3, 2023 |
| Main results expected | May 2026 |
| Study ends | May 2026 |
| Registry record updated | December 5, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT05643469 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are smokers aged 18 and above, diagnosed with any stage of cancer, who can communicate in Cantonese and use instant messaging.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with unstable medical conditions, poor cognitive states, or mental illnesses may not benefit from this intervention.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This intervention aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a self-determination theory-based approach combined with instant messaging to assist smokers diagnosed with cancer in quitting smoking. Participants will be allowed to choose their quit schedule and will receive regular instant messaging support. The study will involve a randomized controlled trial with 1448 smokers attending outpatient clinics at five major acute care hospitals in Hong Kong. The intervention includes a brief advice session using the AWARD model, followed by follow-up support through instant messaging.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve smoking cessation rates among cancer patients, enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies using similar self-determination and brief intervention approaches have shown promising results in smoking cessation.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * smoked weekly in the last 6 months, * diagnosed with any cancer for at least 6 months and at all cancer stages (I, II, III, or IV), * aged 18 years or above and can communicate in Cantonese, and * own a smartphone and able to use instant messaging (e.g. WhatsApp or WeChat) Exclusion Criteria: * individuals with unstable medical conditions, poor cognitive state, or mental illness as advised by the doctor in charge and noted on their medical records, and * those participating in other smoking cessation programmes.
Where it's running
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The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ho Cheung William Li, PhD — Chinese University of Hong Kong
- Study coordinator: Ho Cheung William Li, PhD
- Email: williamli@cuhk.edu.hk
- Phone: 39430889
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.