Cue-based Treatment + CBT for Smoking Cessation

This trial explores new methods to help people quit smoking by comparing two treatments. One group receives Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which uses talk therapy to change habits. The other group receives CBT plus a cue-based treatment intervention that manages cravings by exposing participants to smoking-related triggers and teaching coping strategies. The researchers aim to determine which approach is more effective and acceptable for people who smoke lightly or infrequently. Ideal participants smoke 1-10 cigarettes a day on at least 4 days a week for the past year, are willing to quit in the next 30 days, and have a cell phone for texting. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could help develop new strategies for quitting smoking.

Earlier research on treatments using cues to help people stop smoking showed mixed results. One initial study found this approach could work and be acceptable for light smokers. However, another study found that exposure to smoking cues might increase the chance of relapse for those more addicted to nicotine.

Studies have shown that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a safe and effective way to help people quit smoking. Many studies have demonstrated that CBT can greatly improve the chances of successfully quitting smoking.

Researchers are excited about the combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and cue-based treatment for smoking cessation because it uniquely integrates exposure to smoking-related cues alongside traditional CBT methods. While most existing treatments for smoking cessation, like nicotine replacement therapies and medications such as varenicline, focus on reducing withdrawal symptoms, this approach directly addresses the environmental and psychological triggers that lead to smoking. By teaching coping strategies in response to these cues, this method could not only help in quitting smoking but also aid in long-term relapse prevention. The use of telehealth for CBT delivery also adds convenience, making it more accessible for participants.

Research has shown that treatments using smoking-related cues, such as being around reminders of smoking, can help people quit by reducing cravings over time. One study found that cravings decreased steadily during sessions with this type of therapy. Another review found that online programs, which can include these cue-based treatments, significantly help people quit smoking after six months. In this trial, participants will receive either Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) alone or a combination of CBT and cue-based treatment. CBT has proven effective for quitting smoking, with notable improvements in long-term success rates. Combining CBT with cue-based treatments might enhance these effects by addressing both the mental and trigger-related aspects of smoking habits.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰