New Delhi, January 24, 2024 – In a significant breakthrough for tobacco cessation efforts, a clinical trial conducted at SCB Dental College and Hospital in Cuttack, Odisha, has unveiled the remarkable efficacy of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) when combined with Behavioral Therapy. The trial, led by Dr. Utkal Mohanty, demonstrated a fivefold increase in quit rates among participants compared to Behavioral Therapy alone, offering new hope in India’s battle against tobacco consumption.

India, the world’s second-largest tobacco consumer with approximately 267 million adult users, faces a persistent challenge in addressing tobacco-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The trial’s promising results present a transformative opportunity to enhance tobacco cessation strategies and reduce the burden of tobacco-related illnesses.

Dr. Utkal Mohanty, MDS, ePGDEPI, Dept of Public Health Dentistry, SCB Dental College, and former National Consultant (Oral Health), MoHFW, Govt of India, emphasized the unprecedented success of combining Nicotine Replacement Therapy with behavioral intervention. “Relying solely on individual willpower has long been the burden for quitting tobacco in India, and the trial revealed the transformative impact of a holistic approach. Integrating NRT with personalized behavioral support not only increased quit rates but also offered crucial guidance and encouragement throughout the participants’ journey,” stated Dr. Mohanty.

The trial involved 93 tobacco users, both smokers and chewers, randomly assigned to receive nicotine gum, nicotine patch, or counseling only. Notably, the study provided extended follow-up for up to 26 weeks, well beyond the recommended 12 weeks of NRT therapy. The combined NRT and behavioral therapy resulted in nearly a fivefold higher quit rate compared to counseling alone, showcasing the effectiveness of this comprehensive approach.

Padma Shri Awardee and Global Public Health Expert Dr. Chandrakant S Pandav emphasized the urgency of addressing tobacco challenges affecting 28.6% of adults in India, particularly impacting 42% of men and 14.2% of women. Dr. Pandav stressed the game-changing potential of NRT, especially in remote areas, and hailed the trial in Cuttack, Odisha, as a significant step against tobacco addiction.

Dr. Sajeela Maini, Head of Tobacco Cessation and De-addiction at Sir Gangaram Hospital, New Delhi, highlighted the pivotal role of Nicotine Replacement Therapy in smoking cessation. Drawing from extensive practice, she asserted that substituting cigarettes with nicotine products is the most effective approach, significantly reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

The trial’s findings underscore the need to maintain over-the-counter (OTC) availability of NRT, ensuring easy access for individuals striving to quit smoking. This OTC option empowers individuals, promotes autonomy in their cessation journey, and contributes to a more effective and accessible approach to addressing tobacco use on a national scale.

The successful integration of NRT with comprehensive cessation programs, as demonstrated in the Odisha clinical trial, holds the key to reducing tobacco-related illnesses and deaths, contributing to a healthier future for millions in India.

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