Development of a Conceptual Model for Smoking Cessation: Physical Activity, Neurocognition, and Executive Functioning

Purpose: Considerable research has shown adverse neurobiological effects of chronic alcohol use, including long-term and potentially permanent changes in the structure and function of the brain; however, much less is known about the neurobiological consequences of chronic smoking, as it has largely been ignored until recently. In this article, we present a conceptual model proposing the effects of smoking on neurocognition and the role that physical activity may play in this relationship as well as its role in smoking cessation. Methods: Pertinent published peer-reviewed articles deposited in PubMed delineating the pathways in the proposed model were reviewed. Results: The proposed model, which is supported by emerging research, demonstrates a bidirectional relationship between smoking and executive functioning. In support of our conceptual model, physical activity may moderate this relationship and indirectly influence smoking behavior through physical activity-induced changes in executive functioning. Conclusions: Our model may have implications for aiding smoking cessation efforts through the promotion of physical activity as a mechanism for preventing smoking-induced deficits in neurocognition and executive function.