Examining Inequality In Trials Of Smoking Cessation Interventions Delivered In Primary Care: Critique And Reanalysis Of Cochrane Reviews

Background Tobacco smoking is a major cause of chronic disease and premature mortality. Its effects are socially patterned. Observational studies show that low socioeconomic status [SES] is associated with higher smoking prevalence and lower cessation rates. Interventions in primary care may improve or exacerbate health inequalities depending on socioeconomic patterning of access and uptake. Data on the impact of trials of smoking cessation interventions delivered in primary care on health inequalities by SES have not been synthesised. Aims To examine the impact of smoking cessation interventions delivered in primary care on inequalities in health by socioeconomic status. Methods