Using scents to help people quit smoking
An Innovative Digitally-Delivered Olfactory Method for Reducing Cigarette Cravings and Supporting Smoking Cessation
This study is testing a fun new way to help people quit smoking by using scents delivered through a smartphone app, which might help reduce cravings and improve mood while they work on quitting.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10794591 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a new method to help individuals quit smoking by using olfactory stimuli, or scents, delivered through a smartphone app. The approach is based on the idea that intentionally sniffing certain smells can change emotional states and reduce cravings for cigarettes. Participants will engage with a smartphone application that integrates these olfactory cues to support their smoking cessation efforts. The study aims to refine how these scents are administered and evaluate their effectiveness in real-world settings.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over the age of 21 who are actively trying to quit smoking.
Not a fit: Patients who do not smoke or are not interested in quitting smoking may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel and accessible tool for individuals trying to quit smoking, potentially increasing cessation rates.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results using olfactory stimuli to reduce cravings, suggesting potential for success with this innovative approach.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Garey, Lorra — University of Houston
- Study coordinator: Garey, Lorra
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.