Trends in Electronic Cigarette Use Among U.S. Adults: Use is Increasing in Both Smokers and Nonsmokers

Introduction:
This text is a summary of the study "Trends in Electronic Cigarette Use Among U.S. Adults: Use is Increasing in Both Smokers and Nonsmokers" published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research in 2015. The study aimed to assess trends in use of electronic cigarettes among U.S. adults, demographic predictors of use, and smoking status of current electronic cigarette users. The results of this study can inform regulatory decisions about these products and guide clinical counseling efforts regarding the risks of any tobacco or nicotine use.

Key Points:

* The study used cross-sectional dual-frame surveys representing national probability samples of adults in each of 4 years (2010-2013)
* The surveys included a Random Digit Dialing (RDD) frame and an internet panel frame
* Participants were asked about their self-reported use of electronic cigarettes and smoking status
* The results showed an increase in ever use and current use of electronic cigarettes from 2010 to 2013
* The increase in use was significant across all demographic groups, including smokers and nonsmokers
* In 2013, current use among young adults (18-24) was higher than adults 25-44, 45-64, and 65+
* Daily smokers and nondaily smokers were the most likely to currently use e-cigarettes, but 32.5% of current electronic cigarette users are never-or former smokers

Main Message:
The study found that electronic cigarette use has rapidly increased from 2010 to 2013 among U.S. adults, with use being highest among young adults and current cigarette smokers. However, a significant proportion of current electronic cigarette users are never-or former smokers, suggesting that e-cigarettes contribute to primary nicotine addiction and to renormalization of smoking behaviors. The study highlights the need for regulatory action at the federal, state, and local levels to ensure that these products do not contribute to preventable chronic disease.

McMillen, Robert C., Mark A. Gottlieb, Regina M. Whitmore Shaefer, Jonathan P. Winickoff, and Jonathan D. Klein. “Trends in Electronic Cigarette Use Among U.S. Adults: Use Is Increasing in Both Smokers and Nonsmokers.” Nicotine & Tobacco Research 17, no. 10 (October 2015): 1195–1202. https://doi.org/10.1093/ntr/ntu213.