Korean Clinical Practice Guideline of Korean Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco (KSRNT) and National Evidence-based Healthcare Collaborating Agency (NECA) on Treatment of Tobacco Use 2024

Abstract

Tobacco use is a leading cause of preventable death, disease, and disability worldwide. Thus, smoking cessation is a critical public health intervention globally. This clinical practice guideline was developed to provide recommendations on pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments for smoking cessation, tailored strategies for smoking cessation in special populations, and interventions for users of electronic cigarettes and multiple tobacco products. Thirty key questions and corresponding evidence-based recommendations were derived from systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and de novo development. A multidisciplinary panel of experts participated in the development of this guideline, incorporating evaluation of evidence quality, benefit–risk balance, patient values and preferences, resource use, and feasibility in the development process. This guideline reflects the latest research on smoking cessation treatments and provides practical and adaptable strategies for clinical and policy implementation. In addition, this guideline is expected to support healthcare providers in improving cessation success rates and contribute to the reduction of smoking-related morbidity and mortality rates in Korea. This guideline will be updated periodically in response to emerging evidence and clinical needs.