Smartphone Training for Attention Regulation for IBS

Study Summary

In the largest and most well-controlled randomized control trial of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) training in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to-date (N=360), the investigators will evaluate whether a smartphone MBI program (with attention monitoring and acceptance skills training; Monitor+Accept, MA-MBI) reduces daily life stress and IBS symptoms at post-treatment and two-month follow-up, relative to a matched MBI program with acceptance skills training removed (training in attention monitoring skills only; Monitor Only, MO-MBI) or to an active stress management training control group (Coping Control, CC). Participants will not only provide clinician and patient assessed measures of IBS symptoms at the three time points, but they will also provide sensitive experience sampling assessments (using Ecological Momentary Assessment) of their stress and symptoms in daily life at each time point. Finally, as an exploratory aim, participants will provide stool samples at baseline and post-intervention to provide the first ever test of whether MBIs can alter the gut microbiome in IBS. We will also conduct a sub-study that will include completion of a cold-water challenge performance task to test individuals' distress tolerance.

Primary Outcome

The Irritable Bowel Syndrome Severity Scoring System (IBS-SSS), queries patients on the severity and occurrence of abdominal pain, bloating, tightness, and bowel habits, and IBS life interference over the previous ten days. Scores are totaled (0-500 range) to obtain a composite IBS severity score, with the scale demonstrating acceptable clinical sensitivity to change (50 point changes indicate clinical improvement).

Interventions

• BEHAVIORAL Mindfulness training
• BEHAVIORAL Mindfulness and Attention Training
• BEHAVIORAL Coping Condition