Mindfulness App for Smoking Cessation in Cancer Survivors
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new app designed to help cancer survivors quit smoking. It gathers feedback on the app's effectiveness and user-friendliness when combined with brief counseling and nicotine replacement therapy. Individuals who have smoked recently, have a cancer diagnosis, and are willing to try quitting with the app are suitable candidates. Participants need a smartphone to use the app daily and should not currently participate in any smoking cessation programs or use related medications. As a Phase 1 trial, the research focuses on understanding how the treatment works in people, offering participants the opportunity to be among the first to experience this innovative approach.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that you are not currently using smoking cessation medications, so you would need to stop those if you are taking them.
What prior data suggests that this app is safe for cancer survivors?
Research has shown that digital programs to help people quit smoking, like the one being tested, can be beneficial, even if the effects are sometimes small. These programs use tools like smartphone apps to assist cancer survivors in quitting smoking.
While detailed safety information on this specific app is not yet available, similar digital programs are generally safe. They are considered low-risk because they don't involve medications or medical procedures.
Participants in similar studies have reported few side effects, mostly related to the usual challenges of quitting smoking, such as cravings and mood swings. Since this trial is in an early stage, it primarily focuses on gathering user feedback and assessing the app's usability. Detailed safety information is still being collected, but the emphasis on usability suggests that the app is expected to be safe.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike traditional smoking cessation treatments like nicotine replacement therapies, medications such as varenicline or bupropion, and behavioral counseling, the mindfulness app for smoking cessation in cancer survivors offers a novel approach by integrating technology with psychological support. This app-based intervention makes it convenient and accessible, allowing users to engage with the program at their own pace and in their own environment. Researchers are excited because it combines brief counseling and nicotine replacement therapy with mindfulness techniques, delivered directly through a smartphone app, potentially enhancing adherence and effectiveness by providing support whenever needed. This innovative approach aims to address both the physical and psychological aspects of quitting smoking, which could be especially beneficial for cancer survivors dealing with unique stressors.
What evidence suggests that this mindfulness app is effective for smoking cessation in cancer survivors?
Research has shown that smartphone apps can help people quit smoking. Specifically, apps offering personalized support at critical moments can increase the chances of quitting. One study found that users of the Smart-T app were more successful at quitting than those using a standard guide, with 37% not smoking for at least seven days. Additionally, digital tools designed for cancer survivors have reduced the number of cigarettes smoked weekly. These findings suggest that the mindfulness app tested in this trial could effectively help cancer survivors quit smoking by providing timely support and motivation.12678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Min-Jeong Yang, PhD
Principal Investigator
Moffitt Cancer Center
Christine Vinci, PhD
Principal Investigator
Moffitt Cancer Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for cancer survivors who smoke and are willing to try quitting. Participants must be able to use an app on their smartphone daily, speak English, and have smoked recently. They can't join if they're using other quit-smoking treatments, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have current psychosis.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive brief cessation counseling, nicotine replacement therapy, and intervention content via the app
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for feedback and retention after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- EMI
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator