Smoking cessation dialogue and the complementary therapist: Reluctance to engage?

•We explored the views of complementary therapists regarding smoking cessation (SC).•Therapists were reluctance to engage in SC support for fear of comprising the therapeutic relationship.•Nicotine Replacement Therapy advice was regarded as a 'medical' activity.•Further training in SC support is suggested for therapists working in oncology settings.

IntroductionOur aim was to explore the experiences and views of complementary therapists (CT) regarding smoking cessation (SC) support within the oncology setting.MethodsTwo oncology sites participated in the North West of England. Three focus groups were conducted (n = 19) with resulting transcripts thematically analysed. Demographic data was collected via a short questionnaire.ResultsReasons were given for reluctance to engage in SC support, these included; fear of comprising the therapeutic relationship, patient's poor motivation and/or those living with life limiting disease. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) advice was regarded as a ‘medical’ activity. There was evidence of smoker-related stigmatisation.ConclusionThis study provided insights in how complementary therapists view a potential SC role. Research is needed to determine whether the findings are common to other areas of CT practice. Further training in SC support is suggested for those working in oncology settings.