Experimentation of a smoking cessation program through physical activity in Paris

A smoking cessation program through physical and sports activities has just been set up in Paris on an experimental basis. Funded by the National Cancer Institute (INCa), it is intended to be rolled out at the national level.

At the end of December 2023, the City of Paris and the National Cancer Institute (INCa) announced the launch of a program to support smoking cessation through physical activity[1]The aim is to offer regular smokers physical and sporting activities for a period of time, in order to overcome the symptoms of the withdrawal period.

A personalized support program

Still in the experimental phase, this support program will be tested from the end of January 2024 at the Maison Sport Santé Curial, in the 19th arrondissement. It will take place over six months, with three sessions per week lasting 45 minutes to one hour. 50 to 60 participants will be selected for this first wave. Equipped with a medical prescription, they will benefit from an interview to assess their motivation and physical abilities, in order to offer them suitable activities. Additional activities, including a tobacco consultation, will also be offered. An assessment will be carried out at the end of the program, followed by another six months later. A guide to sharing experiences will be produced at the end of this program.

The initiative targets a less advantaged public, among whom consumption is high and the risk of returning to smoking is more frequent. The aim is to make the person independent and to allow them to access other free activities offered by the City of Paris. Certain other activities, including referral to a tobacco consultation or encouragement to other forms – not detailed – of help with quitting, may be offered in the event of a return to tobacco consumption.

Sport, a valued ally in withdrawal situations

According to INCa, this program could be rolled out to all communities if it proves conclusive. Among 18 studies on the subject conducted in other countries, 17 have proven effective in combating the irrepressible need to smoke ("craving")[2]. The side effects of withdrawal, such as irritability, stress or weight gain, appear to be significantly reduced, which has been verified with other psychoactive substances. Smoking abstinence thus becomes easier. Physical activity also improves physical condition and cardio-respiratory capacity, and contributes to better mental health. Added to this are the immediate health benefits of quitting smoking.

As with other addictions, sport has often been highlighted in withdrawal strategies. The INCa program should help to better scientifically support this concept. Its interest is also to support the therapeutic management of addiction, and not to replace its treatments.

Keywords: sport, smoking cessation, INCa, City of Paris, MSS Curial

MF

[1] Stop smoking through sport: the City of Paris and the National Cancer Institute launch a partnership program, Paris Presse, published December 21, 2023, consulted January 16, 2024.

[2] Santi P, To quit smoking, get moving!, Le Monde, published January 15, 2024, consulted January 16, 2024.