Mindfulness-based interventions for smoking cessation in low socioeconomic status groups: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) may help smokers from low socioeconomic environments overcome barriers to cessation. This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effectiveness (RQ1) and feasibility (RQ2) of these interventions. Included studies sampled daily smokers in low socioeconomic environments who underwent a MBI or reported opinions about MBIs. A search of five databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and CINAHL; last accessed 2nd May 2025) identified 15 studies, including 6 RCTs in a meta-analysis comparing MBIs (n = 892) to comparators (n = 816). The primary outcome was smoking cessation at 6 months or longer. MBIs showed significantly higher odds of smoking cessation than comparators (OR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.08–2.11), although confidence in the evidence was low. Studies highlighted the growing use of mobile health MBIs and high retention, satisfaction, and engagement. While MBIs are feasible and acceptable in low socioeconomic environments, more large-scale RCTs are needed.