Helping smokers with cancer quit using self-determination and messaging

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

Not applicable Interventional Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT05643469

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

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment1448 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorChinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hong Kong)
Trial IDNCT05643469 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

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.

Not a fit: Patients with unstable medical conditions, poor cognitive states, or mental illnesses may not benefit from this intervention.

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 performed: Previous studies using similar self-determination and brief intervention approaches have shown promising results in smoking cessation.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Hong Kong

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions SmokingCancerInstant messagingSelf-determinationOutpatient clinicsQuality of lifeSmoking cessation
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.