A Randomized Pilot Study Comparing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Basic Health Education for Tobacco Cessation among Current Smokers Aged 35–44 Years at Government Bus Stand, Patna

Abstract

Introduction:Tobacco use is a significant public health concern, particularly among occupational groups such as government bus drivers, who are often exposed to high stress and irregular routines. Behavioral interventions like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Basic Health Education (BHE) have shown promise in aiding tobacco cessation, yet their comparative impact in this high- risk group requires further exploration.

Aim:This study aimed to evaluate and compare the short- term effectiveness of CBT and BHE in promoting tobacco cessation among current smokers aged 35–44 years employedas government bus drivers attheGovernment Bus Stand, Patna.

Methods:A randomized, two-arm, single-blind pilot study was conducted with 10 male participants, equally divided into CBT and BHE groups. Each participant received four weekly group sessions of 45–60 minutes. The interventions included structured CBT focusing on behavioral triggers, self- monitoring, and relapse prevention, while BHE involved general education on tobacco-relatedharms and motivational guidance. Smoking status was assessed at baselineand at 4 weeks using the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND), self-reports, and CO monitoring where applicable.

Results:At 4 weeks, 60% of participants in the CBT group quit smoking and 40% reduced usage, compared to 20% quitting, 40% reducing, and 40% showing no change in the BHE group.

Conclusion:CBT showed greater effectiveness than BHE in supporting short-term tobacco cessation among occupational smokers. The results support CBT as a feasible intervention in workplace-based cessation programs and warrant further evaluation through larger randomized controlled trials.