Understanding why smokers hesitate to switch to e-cigarettes and how to communicate better about it

Misperceptions that prevent complete switching to e-cigarettes among adult smokers: A more nuanced communication strategy

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-10984647

This study is looking into why many adult smokers think e-cigarettes are just as bad as regular cigarettes, and it aims to find better ways to explain the risks so that smokers might feel more comfortable switching to e-cigarettes as a safer option.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorRUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10984647 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the reasons why many adult smokers believe that e-cigarettes are just as harmful as traditional cigarettes, which can prevent them from making the switch. It aims to develop effective communication strategies that can clarify the relative risks of e-cigarettes compared to combustible cigarettes. By utilizing advanced neurocognitive measures, the study will assess how different messages impact smokers' beliefs and intentions regarding e-cigarette use. The goal is to create educational messages that resonate with smokers and encourage them to consider e-cigarettes as a safer alternative.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adult smokers who are considering switching to e-cigarettes but have misconceptions about their safety.

Not a fit: Patients who have already successfully quit smoking or those who do not smoke may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help smokers make informed decisions about switching to e-cigarettes, potentially reducing their exposure to harmful chemicals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that effective communication strategies can significantly influence smoking behaviors, suggesting that this approach may yield positive results.

Where this research is happening

Newark, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.