Remote Quit Smoking Research Study
Researchers at the University of Minnesota are conducting a study to see if the app we developed, PASCAL, can help Black/African American people manage their smoking triggers.
Fast Facts
Interested in quitting smoking
Identify as Black or African American
Compensation
up to $355
Conducted remotely
Study Background
University of Minnesota researchers are studying smoking and quitting in Black or African American adults.
Many people who smoke find it difficult to quit due to cravings, habits, and brain processes that reinforce nicotine use. This study aims to learn how a smartphone app called PASCAL, which includes tools to track triggers, manage cravings, and access a chatbot for support, can help participants attempt to quit smoking.
Participants will also receive up to an 8-week supply of nicotine lozenges to support their quit attempt. By studying how people interact with the app and its features, we hope to better understand what types of support are most effective for helping people successfully quit and improve their overall health.
Study Background
University of Minnesota researchers are studying smoking and quitting in Black or African American adults.
Many people who smoke find it difficult to quit due to cravings, habits, and brain processes that reinforce nicotine use. This study aims to learn how a smartphone app called PASCAL, which includes tools to track triggers, manage cravings, and access a chatbot for support, can help participants attempt to quit smoking.
Participants will also receive up to an 8-week supply of nicotine lozenges to support their quit attempt. By studying how people interact with the app and its features, we hope to better understand what types of support are most effective for helping people successfully quit and improve their overall health.
Additional Information
This study is being conducted to evaluate the feasibility and accessibility of the PASCAL smartphone app for people who want to quit smoking. We want to understand how participants use the app, how easy it is to access its features, and whether the app’s tools, such as tracking triggers, managing cravings, and interacting with a chatbot, help support quitting. The findings will help improve the app and guide the development of accessible tools that can make quitting smoking easier for more people.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:
- 21 years of age or older
- Identify as Black or African American
- Currently smoke cigarettes
- Live in Minnesota
- Have a smartphone with regular Wi-Fi access
- Willing to make a quit attempt
- Be a native English speaker
The entire study lasts about 9 weeks. Once enrolled, the study involves:
Remote visits:
- 4 video calls (about 1 hour each) to guide you through the study, track your progress, and collect questionnaires and carbon monoxide measurements.
- During these visits, the study team will help you set a quit date, use the PASCAL app, and review your nicotine lozenge supply.
At home:
- You’ll use the PASCAL smartphone app to track smoking, cravings, and triggers.
- Some participants will use the chatbot feature to get guidance and support during the quit attempt.
- You’ll complete brief surveys throughout the study to share your experiences. Each survey takes only a few minutes to complete. The app will collect information about your smoking patterns and interactions with the app, but it will not access the content of your messages or any private information outside the app.
All study activities can be completed from home. Study materials, including the CO monitor, lozenges, and instructions, will be mailed to you.
As a participant, you can earn up to $355 for completing all study activities.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study, but you will need internet access on your device.