Resumen

SARDINHA, Aline et al. Cognitive-behavioral group therapy for smoking cessation. Rev. bras.ter. cogn. [online]. 2005, vol.1, n.1, pp.83-90. ISSN 1808-5687.

Tobacco use is currently considered a major public health problem. Cognitive-behavior therapy presents scientific evidence that confirms its efficacy on smoking cessation. This article aims to present the results of two years of work in The Tobacco Control Program of Pedro Ernesto University Hospital (HUPE). This program educates patients about smoking risks, the benefits of smoking cessation, and the physiological mechanisms of nicotine in the human body, motivating, supporting and helping patients dealing with abstinence symptoms and psychological dependence. The group therapy sessions take place in the University’s Cancer Control Center, entailed to the Pedro Ernesto University Hospital, in Rio de Janeiro, with male and female patients that present the need to break with nicotine addiction. This intervention aims a gradual reduction of nicotine use and ultimate cessation, as well as the development of cognitive and behavioral strategies to prevent risk smoking situations. Cessation groups are structured in six weekly sessions. Groups are formed by up to 10 patients and the sessions last about two hours. Before the beginning of the cessation group, there is a preparation session, aimed to motivate patients towards change. Following, they should attend maintenance sessions, twice a month, for at least three months after the end of the cessation group sessions.

Palabras clave : Tobacco; Cognitive-behavioral therapy; Smoking cessation.