Effect of an Intervention Trial on Parental Perceptions of Exposure Among Smoking Parents

Background: Children who live with smokers are exposed to second- and thirdhand smoke, and at risk of sudden infant death syndrome, chronic ear and respiratory infections and impaired lung function. Misperceptions regarding exposure to tobacco smoke have been demonstrated among smoking parents, and may contribute to continued exposure of children in the home.

Aim: To obtain an estimate of the effect of an intervention programme on parental perceptions of exposure (PPE) in smoking parents.

Methods: 159 families with a child ≤ age 8 and at least one smoking parent were recruited and randomized into intervention (69), control (70) and enhanced control (20) groups. Data obtained at home visits included parental smoking habits, reported exposure, and a hair sample which was analysed for nicotine. PPE were assessed via questionnaire comprising photos and vignettes at study beginning and end (~6 months later) in the intervention and enhanced control groups; and at study end in the regular control group. The intervention comprised 2 motivational interviews, feedback of home air quality and child’s hair nicotine level, and 2 brochures. Control groups received a reduced intervention at study end.

Results: Mean age of children was 3 years (SD 1.92). Parental perceptions of exposure were significantly higher at study end (94.6±17.6) compared to study beginning (86.5±19.3) in those who completed the questionnaire twice (p<.001). At study end PPE were significantly higher in the intervention group compared to the regular control group (p=.020). PPE were related to parental smoking behavior including home smoking location and frequency, with those who smoke in and around the home demonstrating lower perceptions than those who do not (p=.039).

Conclusions: Parental perceptions of exposure were related to parental smoking behaviour and increased after participation in a trial, indicating that they can be altered, and parents made more aware of exposure.