Randomized trial comparing mindfulness training for smokers to a matched control.
Study Goal
The researchers aimed to compare the effectiveness of a mindfulness-based smoking cessation treatment against a standard control program (Freedom From Smoking) in achieving long-term abstinence.
Results Summary
No significant difference was found in 6-month smoking abstinence rates between mindfulness (25.0%) and control (17.9%) groups (p=0.35). However, the mindfulness intervention showed positive effects on urges, mindfulness levels, perceived stress, and experiential avoidance.
Population
175 low socioeconomic status smokers in a midwestern city (2011-2012).
Effective Dosage
Not specified
Duration
Not specified
Interactions
None mentioned
| Intervention | Direction | Endpoint | Population | Dosage | Impact | Claim # |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
mindfulness training | no change | intent-to-treat biochemically confirmed 6-month smoking abstinence rates | 175 low socioeconomic status smokers | mindfulness=25.0%, control=17.9% (p=0.35) | A significant difference was not found | #1 |
mindfulness training | decrease | measures of urges | 175 low socioeconomic status smokers | - | Differences favoring the mindfulness condition were found | #2 |
mindfulness training | increase | changes in mindfulness | 175 low socioeconomic status smokers | - | Differences favoring the mindfulness condition were found | #3 |
mindfulness training | decrease | perceived stress | 175 low socioeconomic status smokers | - | Differences favoring the mindfulness condition were found | #4 |
mindfulness training | decrease | experiential avoidance | 175 low socioeconomic status smokers | - | Differences favoring the mindfulness condition were found | #5 |
mindfulness training | neutral | - | 175 low socioeconomic status smokers | - | resulted in positive outcomes | #6 |
Smoking continues to take an enormous toll on society, and although most smokers would like to quit, most are unsuccessful using existing therapies. These findings call on researchers to develop and test therapies that provide higher rates of long-term smoking abstinence. We report results of a randomized controlled trial comparing a novel smoking cessation treatment using mindfulness training to a matched control based on the American Lung Association's Freedom From Smoking program. Data were collected on 175 low socioeconomic status smokers in 2011-2012 in a medium sized midwestern city. A significant difference was not found in the primary outcome; intent-to-treat biochemically confirmed 6-month smoking abstinence rates were mindfulness=25.0%, control=17.9% (p=0.35). Differences favoring the mindfulness condition were found on measures of urges and changes in mindfulness, perceived stress, and experiential avoidance. While no significant differences were found in quit rates, the mindfulness intervention resulted in positive outcomes.