Development and efficacy testing of an artificial intelligence enabled treatment package (eDOSTHI) for tobacco cessation: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Comprehensive Summary

The study presents a testing strategy for the eDOSTHI mobile application which employs artificial intelligence to assist users in achieving tobacco cessation. The application will offer its services in English and Bengali language versions to deliver guidance and support and medical services for individuals seeking to quit tobacco. The researchers will create and evaluate the application before proceeding to a randomized controlled trial which will include approximately 440 participants aged between 18 to 65 years. The intervention group will consist of participants who use the application while the control group will receive standard care. The researchers will assess participants at 4 weeks and 24 weeks to determine whether the application assists them in achieving tobacco cessation. The research team obtained ethical clearance for the study which complies with national research standards to protect participant safety and manage research data.

Outcomes and Implications

The eDOSTHI application will serve as an effective and accessible tobacco cessation solution if it functions properly. People who want to quit tobacco face difficulties because they cannot obtain proper medical treatment and counseling assistance. An AI-based app creates continuous support with reminders and customized advice which helps users maintain their quitting progress. The solution will decrease tobacco-related health issues which include lung cancer and heart disease and respiratory illnesses. The application supports multiple languages and cultural settings which enables it to provide services to various communities especially those in regions with limited healthcare access. The current technology will enable tobacco treatment solutions to become more affordable and accessible to a larger population.