Reducing children’s exposure to second-hand smoke in the home
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A pilot randomised controlled trial of an intervention to reduce children’s exposure to second-hand smoke in the home in disadvantaged communities in Scotland
IRAS ID
329222
Contact name
Rachel O'Donnell
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Stirling
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 5 months, 30 days
Research summary
The harmful health effects of children’s exposure to second-hand smoke are well established. Most second-hand smoke exposure now occurs in the home, in low-income households, because of challenges including limited access to private outdoor space and sole parenting. Our previous research suggests that using nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) in the home instead of smoking indoors may help. We want to build on this work to see if using NRT to reduce children’s exposure to second-hand smoke is effective for smokers, their families and the NHS. But first we need to conduct a pilot study where some smokers will get free NRT posted to their home alongside telephone support to reduce children’s exposure to second-hand smoke, and compare this with smokers who do not get NRT and telephone support. If results are promising, we will seek funding for a larger trial to tell us whether this approach improves child health outcomes.
REC name
West of Scotland REC 3
REC reference
23/WS/0153
Date of REC Opinion
15 Dec 2023
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion