| dc.description.abstract | Background: Smoking is a public health problem and worldwide the number of smoking
related deaths has increased. Since 1973-74 the percentage of smoking women has dropped
by only seven percent. Sex differences indicate that women are more likely to have severe
health issues due to smoking. For many the social aspect of smoking causes cessation
difficulties. Purpose: To investigate how women who have quit smoking experienced the
cessation process. Material and method: 10 women in central Norway was included in a
qualitative study using individual in depth semi-structured interviews. Analysis were carried
out using Malterud`s systematic text condensation. Results: The participants described that
the anticipation to be “superwomen” affected the cessation process and made it more difficult.
Another important aspect was commitment to others, in particular children. Smoking
cessation was described as leading to an experience of loss, as well as regaining control.
Conclusions: The interviews gave further information on how women live the process of
smoking cessation as well as the various challenges appearing. Health issues is an important
element, but does not necessarily provide adequate motivation to quit smoking, and the fear of
gaining weight along with formed habits makes quitting difficult. Occasionally successful
quitters also experience loss and sorrow caused by breaking habits (smoking). Also the
sentiments regarding losing control of life, makes quitting difficult. Relevance: This study
provided knowledge about how women experienced the process of smoke cessation. The
study stresses the importance of motivation, and indicates that motivation must be stronger
than the resisting forces in order to successfully quit smoking. | nb_NO |
