Evaluation of an adolescent smoking-cessation media campaign: GottaQuit.com.

Abstract

To evaluate the impact of a smoking-cessation media campaign for teens on utilization of a cessation Web site, GottaQuit.com. Telephone surveys were conducted before and after the implementation of a countywide media campaign to promote the use of a smoking-cessation Web site for youths. The surveys were designed to assess teen awareness and utilization of the Web site, as well as tobacco use and cessation attempts. Supplemental 2003 Youth Risk Behavior Survey items also assessed use of the Web site. Most teen smokers reported that they wanted to quit smoking. Almost all teens reported exposure to GottaQuit.com ads and accurately identified GottaQuit.com as a Web site that offers cessation help for youths. Nearly 1 in 4 smokers who were trying to quit had visited GottaQuit.com or another Web site for cessation assistance. The GottaQuit.com campaign effectively reached almost all teens, regardless of smoking status. Smokers were more likely than nonsmokers to have visited the Web site for help with quitting. Web adjuncts are likely to be used by adolescents who seek assistance in quitting.