USE OF XYLITOL GUM TO REDUCE SMOKING RISK HEALTH BEHAVIORSIN ADOLESCENTS WITH ISPA

Abstract

Background: Smoking has been known as a high-risk behavior that can cause various diseases, including Acute Respiratory Infections (ARI). In Indonesia, the prevalence of smoking, especially among teenagers, has become a serious concern. With this increasing prevalence rate, effective interventions are needed to reduce smoking behavior, especially among adolescents who also suffer from ARI. Objective: This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of xylitol gum as nicotine replacement therapy in reducing smoking behavior in adolescents suffering from ARI. It is hoped that with this research, safe and effective alternative therapies can be found to reduce smoking habits. Method: Using a case study approach, this research was conducted in Temanggung Regency with two respondents as research subjects. Both respondents are active smokers who also suffer from ISPA. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, observation and physical examination. Next, respondents were given xylitol gum as an intervention and observations were made on changes in their smoking behavior. Results: Based on the results of interviews and observations, both respondents showed smoking behavior that tended to be risky. After being given intervention in the form of xylitol gum, there were indications of a reduction in smoking frequency in both respondents. Apart from that, the ARI symptoms they experienced also showed improvement. Conclusion: Xylitol gum has proven to be effective as nicotine replacement therapy in reducing smoking behavior in adolescents with ARI. With this research, xylitol chewing gum can be used as an alternative in preventing and reducing smoking behavior among teenagers.