The use of behavioral therapy for smoking cessation in a unit in the midwest of Santa Catarina
Authors: Testoni Maria Heloisa , Testoni Bruno Gabriel , Habermann Guilherme Marques , Caramori Bruna Pereira Dolberth , Habermann Maria Aparecida Marques , Rocha Gabriela Carneiro Ramos , Ceccatto Aline 
Published: October 2024

The project's objective was to develop alternative actions for smoking cessation in a Basic Health Unit (UBS) in the mid-west region of Santa Catarina. The main goals included identifying smokers at the UBS, providing guidance on the benefits of quitting smoking, raising awareness of the risks associated with addiction, and directing and motivating patients who were able to stop using tobacco. The methodology adopted was a qualitative and descriptive study, based on a bibliographic review conducted in indexed databases such as Scielo, Google Scholar, and Lilacs. Based on this research, actions were outlined to prevent dependency and encourage patients at the UBS to quit smoking. The extension project was carried out in a single meeting, in the morning and afternoon, with the participation of approximately 40 patients interested in quitting smoking. During the meeting, an educational booklet and the application of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as a cessation strategy were discussed. To help manage addiction and combat oxidative stress, packages of carrot sticks were provided as cigarette substitutes. In addition, patients received guidance on restructuring exercise routines to reduce anxiety caused by withdrawal. The intervention was considered essential for clarifying patient doubts, and continuous meetings and booklet distribution at the UBS are planned. The continuation of the project is seen as fundamental to combating smoking and promoting health in the community served. Objectives: To develop alternative actions for smoking cessation in a Basic Health Unit in the mid-west region of Santa Catarina. Identifying smokers at the UBS to implement the project; Providing guidance on the benefits of smoking cessation; Raising awareness of the risks associated with addiction; Guiding and motivating patients who are ready to quit smoking. Methodology: This is a qualitative and descriptive study. Through a bibliographic review in indexed databases such as Scielo, Google Scholar, and Lilacs, actions were devised to prevent addiction and encourage quitting among this group. Patients were invited to participate in a roundtable discussion where cessation methods, based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, were presented. Results: The extension project was carried out in a single meeting during the morning and afternoon, addressing approximately 40 patients interested in quitting smoking. During the meeting, the educational booklet and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy were explained. Carrot stick packs were provided to replace cigarettes and combat oxidative stress. Patients also received guidance on restructuring exercise routines to reduce anxiety caused by withdrawal. The intervention was considered crucial for clarifying doubts and will be maintained with continuous meetings and booklet distribution at the Health Unit. The continuation of the project is seen as essential for combating smoking and promoting health.