Summary
Introduction:
This text is a research report on a study examining the use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) among users. The study aimed to describe e-cigarette users, assess how and why they used this product, their satisfaction with the product and its perceived effects. The study was conducted through an internet survey in English and French in 2010.
Key Points:
* The study had 3587 participants, with 70% being former tobacco smokers and 61% being men.
* The median duration of electronic cigarette use was 3 months, with users drawing 120 pulfs/day and using five refills/day.
* Almost all (97%) of the users used e-cigarettes containing nicotine.
* Daily users spent $33 per month on these products.
* Most users (96%) said the e-cigarette helped them to quit smoking or reduce their smoking (92%).
* Users of nicotine-containing e-cigarettes reported better relief of withdrawal and a greater effect on smoking cessation than those using non-nicotine e-cigarettes.
* Most ex-smokers (79%) feared they might relapse to smoking if they stopped using the e-cigarette.
Main Message:
The study found that e-cigarettes were used much as people would use nicotine replacement medications: by former smokers to avoid relapse or as an aid to cut down or quit smoking. The study suggests that further research is needed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of e-cigarettes for administering nicotine and other substances, and for quitting and relapse prevention. It is important to note that e-cigarettes are not currently regulated as a medical device, and their safety and efficacy have not been fully established. Therefore, it is recommended that e-cigarette use be approached with caution, especially for those trying to quit smoking.
Citation
Etter, Jean-François, and Chris Bullen. “Electronic Cigarette: Users Profile, Utilization, Satisfaction and Perceived Efficacy: E-Cigarette Survey.” Addiction 106, no. 11 (November 2011): 2017–28. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1360-0443.2011.03505.x.
