The University of Catania won the GRAND, the Award for International Research on Nicotine Dependence, with the project DIASMOKE.
The study will investigate the efficacy and safety of varenecline (Champix) for smoking cessation in patients with type II diabetes.
The trial DIASMOKE, designed by Prof. Riccardo Polosa, international expert in tobacco dependence, aims to investigate the effects of varenicline tartrate (Champix), substance which binds on nicotine receptors to reducing withdrawal symptoms, in diabetics patients who smoke.
The study, the first of its kind, will be launched on the occasion of No Tobacco Day, organized by WHO on May 31. It is expected to enroll 300 patients with type II diabetes who smoke at least 10 cigarettes a day and who are motivated to stop. All participants will be subjected to checks and laboratory tests to assess the success and safety of treatment that will last 12 weeks.
<<This research is a unique opportunity for all diabetic patients smokers – said Prof. RiccardoPolosa of Catania University – thanks to the results of this study, many people will reduce the symptoms related to cigarette smoke which aggravate the problems of diabetes>>.
Diabetes mellitus and cigarette smoking are known risk factors for developing cardiovascular disease and the aggravation of related disorders. However, the data available in literature on the benefits of smoking cessation in diabetic patients are not sufficient. There are also no detailed information on efficacy and safety of anti-smoking treatment for smokers with diabetes.
The project is also supported by LIAF-Onlus, the Italian No Smoke Association.
Press Office LIAF-Onlus
Dott.ssa Gabriella Papale
