An inexpensive portable device for measuring puffing behavior by cigarette smokers

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Accurate monitoring of smoking behavior is crucial for research and intervention.
• Existing methods for tracking cigarette consumption can be cumbersome or intrusive.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate an inexpensive, portable device for counting discrete cigarette puffs.
• To provide a tool for monitoring smoking behavior in both laboratory and naturalistic settings.

Main Methods:

• A device was constructed using a plastic cigarette holder, miniature pressure sensor, and polyvinyl tubing.
• The sensor was connected to a pocket calculator to register each puff as a circuit closure.
• The device's reliability and sensitivity to experimental manipulations were assessed.

Main Results:

• The device reliably counts discrete cigarette puffs.
• The puff measurement is sensitive to various experimental manipulations.
• The device is inexpensive, easily constructed, and fully portable.

Conclusions:

• This novel device offers a practical solution for quantifying cigarette consumption.
• Its portability and ease of use make it suitable for both clinical research and self-monitoring by smokers.
• The device has the potential to aid in smoking cessation studies and behavioral interventions.