Experts Call for Enhanced Smoking Cessation Support for Surgical Patients in Europe

Recent research indicates that smokers and those who have recently quit smoking are at a higher risk of complications following surgical procedures compared to non-smokers. This finding underscores the pressing need for targeted initiatives aimed at promoting smoking cessation among patients scheduled for elective surgeries across Europe.

A comprehensive study conducted by the University of Birmingham in collaboration with the STARSurg Collaborative has revealed that approximately 19.5% of patients undergoing elective surgery are current smokers. Notably, smoking rates are particularly high among younger individuals aged 18 to 40, with 26.8% identified as smokers, and among male patients, at 22.1%. Furthermore, healthy adults without pre-existing conditions demonstrated elevated smoking rates of 24.6%.

Published in The Lancet Regional Health--Europe, the study highlights that both current smokers and those who quit smoking within six weeks to a year prior to surgery are more susceptible to postoperative complications than those who have never smoked. This correlation raises significant concerns about the implications for healthcare systems, particularly given the potential for increased hospital stays and associated costs for the National Health Service (NHS).

The lead researcher emphasized the importance of addressing the high prevalence of smoking among surgical patients, especially in younger and healthier demographics. The data suggests a unique opportunity for healthcare providers to implement effective smoking cessation programs that not only enhance surgical outcomes but also contribute to long-term health benefits.

The study involved an analysis of data from 16,327 patients across 442 hospitals in 29 European countries as part of the CASCADE cohort study. Researchers explored the relationship between smoking status and postoperative complications among individuals undergoing elective abdominal surgeries.

Findings revealed that complication rates remained elevated for up to a year after quitting smoking, challenging existing assumptions about the timeline for recovery and health improvement post-smoking cessation. The urgent need to strengthen smoking cessation pathways within elective surgical care has been highlighted, especially considering the lengthy waiting times for surgeries, which can extend from three to six months.

Tobacco use continues to be a leading global health risk, contributing to over 10% of all deaths worldwide and resulting in nearly 142 million years of life lost annually. Despite ongoing public health efforts, Europe exhibits the highest regional smoking prevalence, with 36% of men and 20% of women still actively smoking.

Elective surgeries present a critical yet underutilized opportunity for preventive measures, including smoking cessation interventions. Current guidelines recommend that individuals cease smoking at least six weeks before surgery to mitigate the risk of complications; however, these guidelines are based on studies that are now over a decade old, highlighting the need for updated research and recommendations.