Causing more than 5 million deaths per year, tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of death. It is estimated that by the year 2030, tobacco use will cause more than 10 million deaths annually. It is also estimated that approximately 70% of smokers want to quit completely, and 40% of smokers try to quit each year.
Although smoking cessation efforts that are proven to work exist, they are vastly underutilized by tobacco users. With such staggering statistics, it is crucial that cessation efforts be accessible and attractive to tobacco users. As a result, social networking is quickly shaping the way smokers kick the habit; and it’s more than just the latest trend. Research has shown that smoking cessation efforts are strengthened by a positive support system.
QuitNet®, an online community and smoking cessation tool, has caught on to the benefits of social networking and is helping smokers build the support systems they need to beat their addiction. The successful site and its multitude of nicotine-free members further support research which has revealed a positive correlation between social connectedness and relapse prevention for smokers.
Although more research is needed to validate these findings, it seems promising that social networking will emerge as a key component of smoking cessation efforts in the 21st century.