Project MARS: Mobile-Assistance for Regulating Smoking

Novel Use of mHealth Data to Identify States of Vulnerability and Receptivity to JITAIs

This study aims to investigate approaches to capitalize on states of vulnerability and receptivity to deliver real-time self-regulation prompts among smokers.

Investigate approaches to capitalize on states of vulnerability and receptivity to deliver real-time self-regulation prompts. Investigate whether, what type, and under what conditions (e.g., current state of vulnerability and/or receptivity) a prompt to engage the individual in self-regulatory activities via mobile app increases engagement, hence reduces vulnerability.

The proposed research will help build a comprehensive conceptual, technical, and empirical foundation necessary to develop effective Just-in-Time-Adaptive-Interventions (JITAIs) based on dynamic models of vulnerability and receptivity. In the micro-randomized trial (MRT), Ecological momentary assessments (EMAs) assessed proximal engagement with self-regulatory strategies, substance use, and other contextual factors after each micro-randomization.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 years of age or older
• Current smoker with an average of at least 3 cigarettes/day
• Motivated to quit within the next 30 days
• Valid home address in Utah, Nevada, and Arizona
• Functioning telephone number and access to reliable wifi
• Can speak, read, and write in English
• At least marginal health literacy (as determined by 45 or greater on REALM literacy test)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Contraindication for nicotine patch or gum
• Current use of tobacco cessation medications or other aids (i.e. buproprion)
• Pregnancy or lactation (as self-reported)