Abstract Background:

There is a lack of knowledge about factors that promote or hinder retention of smokers in treatment.

Objective:

The aim of this study was the identification of variables that predict retention of smokers who received a multicomponent treatment against smoking.

Method:

Participants (n = 79) simultaneously received pharmacological and psychological treatment, including an intervention phase prior to the date of smoking cessation. They were evaluated periodically in their abstinence, depressive and anxious symptoms, and were randomly assigned to three treatment conditions (nicotine patch, bupropion or nicotine patch + bupropion). Eighteen variables were grouped into four categories (demographic, consumption pattern, mood and treatment). Data were analyzed using student's t test and X2, for inclusion into a multivariate logistic regression model.

Results:

Results indicate that age of onset of regular tobacco consumption, secondary education and bupropion pharmacological treatment are significant in relation to the retention of smokers to smoking treatment.

Discussion:

The reported “age of onset” correlates with treatment retention (OR = 1.545, 95 % CI = 1.175-2.032). This variable has not previously been reported in the literature, and taking it into account in the design of prevention and treatment for smoking could increase their success.