The Effects of Study Participation in the Familial Intracranial Aneurysm Study on Cigarette Smoking

Background

Cigarette smoking is the most modifiable risk factor for the formation and rupture of intracranial aneurysm (IA). This study examined the impact of participation in the Familial IA study on smoking behavior.

Methods

On entry into the study, a baseline smoking history was obtained. At follow-up visits, subjects were surveyed concerning their current smoking status. Risk reduction education was site specific and the study did not include a standard approach.

Results

Of participants, 66% had a history of cigarette smoking, with 33.1% being current smokers. There was a significant reduction in the proportion of current smokers by the third yearly follow-up visit (26.7%, P < .001). There was a significant reduction in the daily amount of cigarettes smoked (17.7-11.5, P < .001), with the most significant reduction at the first follow-up visit. Current smokers given the diagnosis of an IA before entry or during the course of the study were more likely to decrease their smoking (19.4-9.8 cigarettes/day, P < .001) than those not given a diagnosis of an IA (16.0-13.3, P = .002). Individuals older then 51 years had a greater reduction in the amount of cigarettes smoked per day compared with those younger than 51 years (2.3 cigarettes/day reduction v 1.5, P = .002).

Conclusion

Subjects who entered into the Familial IA study had a significant decrease in their smoking by the end of 3 years. Factors associated with decreased smoking were diagnosis of IA and older age.

Key Words: Aneurysm, risk factor, smoking