Delphi consensus on research priorities in tobacco use and substance abuse in Saudi Arabia

This is the first study to develop research priorities in tobacco use and substance abuse in Saudi Arabia. Health personnel and community volunteers participated in a national internet survey using the Delphi method. In Round 1, 75 experts identified 33 research priorities. In Round 2, 47 experts divided those research priorities into five primary research categories. The panelists then scored both the categories and priorities. Preventive services received the highest priority in research categories. Smoking relapse and its determinants were ranked the top research priorities. Future research should focus on cigarette smoking relapse and factors associated with long-term smoking cessation.