Scientists scan brains to catch smoking lapses before they happen
NCT ID NCT05572671
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study uses brain scans (fMRI) to see what happens in the brain just before a smoker lapses (takes a cigarette during a quit attempt). Researchers will have 150 smokers complete a task where they can delay smoking for money, while their brain activity and feelings are measured. The goal is to understand why lapses happen, which could lead to better ways to prevent relapse.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
What this could lead to
If successful, this could reveal brain patterns that predict a smoking lapse, pointing toward better strategies to help people quit smoking.
What could go wrong
This is an early-stage observational study, not testing a treatment. It may not find clear brain signals, and results may not apply to all smokers.
Disclaimer
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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The Pennsylvania State University
RECRUITINGUniversity Park, Pennsylvania, 16870, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••