After participants complete the first month, they return for follow-up evaluations every three months. Gilbert said this makes the study more thorough because it examines relapse rates. The researchers also study the circumstances under which people resume smoking.
July 6, 1995
Participants who successfully complete the first month of the current study receive about $400, Gilbert said. Those who complete the follow-up evaluations are paid another $100.
Participants need significant motivation, Gilbert said. The money is a big motivator.
Gilbert said about 90 percent of the participants make it through the first month. He added that many of the participants smoke less after going through the program and some give up the habit completely.
Advertisement
Heather Hamm, a senior in psychology from Peoria who made it through the study, said it was not easy to give up cigarettes.
It was pretty hard, but the money made it worthwhile, Hamm said.
She said she resumed smoking after the smoke-free month was over, but quit again and currently does not smoke.
A smoking machine, built by Hans Bank of the SIUC Fine Instruments Research Shop, allows researchers to give participants measured doses of nicotine and compare the effects on different people, Gilbert said.
The result of this data collection is an overview of what happens to a specific person when he or she quits smoking. Gilbert said the study is set up to examine all aspects of smoking cessation. Emotional, physical and mental factors all are taken into account.
Gilbert said depressed and anxiety-ridden people have a tougher time than other people giving up cigarettes. He added that heavy smokers also find quitting more difficult.
When depressed people are on cigarettes, their brain wave activity actually resembles a normal person’s, Gilbert explained. When they quit, it goes back to the way it was. It’s actually a form of self-medication.
Advertisement*
Gilbert said the women’s study also is exploring the effects of the menstrual cycle and oral contraceptives on quitting smoking. He said the current study is the largest ever done involving the menstrual cycle and smoking.
There may be certain phases in the cycle that are a better time to quit, he said.
Gilbert said about 120 women will be tested by the end of the study.
Amy Skerly, a graduate student in sociology from Los Angeles who has worked in the lab for 3 1/2 years, said her work is rewarding.
It’s a great way to acquire research experience, she said.
Anyone interested in participating in the women’s study may contact the Smoking Lab at 453-3561 for an initial screening.
Advertisement
