The Effectiveness of “Retako” Mobile Application on Proactive Coping Strategies for Smoking Cessation among Adolescents in Bandung, Indonesia

Abstract

Background: Mobile health (mHealth) applications offer innovative solutions for health interventions, particularly in culturally diverse settings such as Indonesia. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the "Retako" mobile application in improving proactive coping strategies for smoking cessation among adolescents in Bandung, Indonesia. Methods: A quasi-experimental study with repeated measures was conducted among 240 adolescents aged 15–18 years. Participants were divided into intervention and control groups, and data were collected at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks using the Proactive Coping Inventory (PCI). Repeated measures ANOVA and post-hoc tests were used to evaluate changes in proactive coping scores, with effect sizes calculated to determine the magnitude of differences. Results: The intervention group showed a statistically significant increase in proactive coping mean scores, from a baseline of 20.5 ± 3.2 to 30.1 ± 2.9 at 12 weeks, indicating a large effect size (Cohen's d = 3.25, p < 0.001). Post-hoc analysis revealed statistically significant improvements both within the intervention group over time and between the intervention and control groups. The control group showed minimal change, emphasizing the app's specific contribution to enhancing proactive coping. Conclusion: The "Retako" mobile application significantly enhances proactive coping strategies among adolescents, demonstrating its efficacy as a culturally tailored and scalable smoking cessation tool. Future research should explore its long-term effects and potential for broader implementation in diverse populations.