Smoking cessation advice after cervical screening: a qualitative interview study of acceptability in Dutch primary care

Background Cervical cancer screening in general practice could be a routine and opportune moment to advise females who smoke to stop smoking. Aim The aims of this study were to investigate the attitudes of females who smoke to receiving advice about stopping smoking after cervical screening and to identify factors associated with the acceptability of this advice. Design and setting This qualitative interview study was conducted with Dutch females who smoked, had undergone cervical screening, and were aged 30 to 60 years. Interviews were performed between December 2016 and September 2017. Method In this study 15 participants were interviewed and transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. Results Females who smoke were ambivalent (positive or sceptical) about being advised to stop smoking after they had undergone cervical screening. An explanation of why smoking behaviour is addressed by the practice assistant performing the smear, and making females feel at ease during the smear test, were found to be factors that might influence acceptability of such advice. Although a personal and non-judgemental approach to discussing smoking was considered essential, participants expressed different preferences regarding the form and content of cessation support. This was reflected by the variations in knowledge about smoking cessation support, previous experiences of cessation attempts, and received cessation advice or support. Conclusion Study participants had mixed opinions about being given advice about smoking cessation after their cervical smear test and differed in their preferences for the type of support for smoking cessation. An interactive approach might improve how well a smoking cessation intervention is received by females who smoke and cater to their individual needs and preferences.