RESUMEN
UNLABELLED: Although studies have shown that smoking is detrimental to the health of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), studies regarding barriers and motivators for smoking cessation are lacking. The purpose of this study was to generate hypotheses regarding the barriers and motivators for smoking cessation in SLE patients. METHODS: This study was based on the theoretical framework of the stages of change model. All participants met SLE classification criteria. Interviews were conducted with 16 current and 10 former smokers. RESULTS: Motivators included: medical reasons, readiness, and concern for others. Barriers included: enjoyment, coping mechanism, and an emotional connection. Participants were unsure of the impact of smoking on their medication and disease, and had mixed feelings regarding the impact on pain. CONCLUSION: The main motivator for cessation in this population was concern for one's health. Rheumatologists need to include disease specific harms and assess pain management strategies as part of cessation counseling.