Summary
Introduction:
This text presents the results of a survey study examining how adolescents and young adults use and perceive pod-based electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), specifically the JUUL brand, and compare it to the use of other e-cigarettes and conventional cigarettes. The study also explores how these products are used, including flavor choices, perceptions of associated risks and benefits, and symptoms of nicotine dependence.
Key Points:
* The study was conducted with 445 adolescents and young adults in California, with a mean age of 19.3 years.
* 15.6% of respondents reported use of pod-based e-cigarettes, 30.4% reported use of other e-cigarettes, and 24.3% reported use of cigarettes.
* Among ever users of pod-based e-cigarettes, 26.5% reported their first e-liquid was flavored menthol or mint and 27.9% reported fruit.
* Users of pod-based e-cigarettes reported high levels of eo-use and polyuse with other e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes.
* Participants perceived a 40% chance of experiencing social risks and short-term and long-term health risks from using pod-based e-cigarettes.
* There was no significant difference in the perceived chance of experiencing health risks between pod-based e-cigarettes and other e-cigarettes.
* Among participants who reported any loss of autonomy from nicotine, there was no difference in mean Hooked On Nicotine Checklist scores between those using pod-based and other e-cigarettes.
Main Message:
The study highlights the increasing use of pod-based e-cigarettes among adolescents and young adults, with high levels of eo-use and polyuse with other tobacco products. Participants' perceptions of risks associated with pod-based e-cigarettes were comparable to those of other e-cigarettes, suggesting a need for increased public health education and regulation targeting all types of e-cigarettes. The findings will inform regulation, marketing, and prevention messaging for e-cigarettes, including the newer pod-based systems.
Citation
McKelvey, Karma, Mike Baiocchi, and Bonnie Halpern-Felsher. “Adolescents’ and Young Adults’ Use and Perceptions of Pod-Based Electronic Cigarettes.” JAMA Network Open 1, no. 6 (October 19, 2018): e183535. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2018.3535.
