Characterizing use patterns and perceptions of relative harm in dual users of electronic and tobacco cigarettes.

Introduction:
This article reports on a study examining the use patterns and perceptions of harm among dual users of electronic and tobacco cigarettes in the United States. The study surveyed participants on demographics, product use patterns, and beliefs about relative product benefits and harms. The key points and main message of the study are summarized below.

Key Points:

* The study found that e-cigarettes were used less often and were associated with lower dependence compared to tobacco cigarettes.
* Participants reported a 30% reduction in self-reported tobacco cigarette smoking since beginning to use e-cigarettes.
* E-cigarette use was reported as more likely in settings with smoking restrictions and when others' health could be adversely affected.
* Participants were twice as likely to report wanting to quit tobacco cigarettes compared to e-cigarettes in the next year and intended to quit tobacco cigarettes sooner.
* Tobacco cigarettes were described as more harmful and addictive, but also as more enjoyable than e-cigarettes.
* The study highlights the need for experimental research, including laboratory studies and clinical trials, to further understand the potential public health benefits and harms of e-cigarettes.
* Policies should consider potential public health benefits of e-cigarettes, in addition to potential harms.

Main Message:
The study provides evidence consistent with both positive and negative public health consequences of e-cigarettes. The results suggest that e-cigarettes may aid in smoking reduction and cessation, but also highlight the potential for delay of cessation and continued nicotine dependence. Policymakers should consider the potential benefits of e-cigarettes, such as reducing harm from tobacco cigarette use, while also addressing potential harms, such as the possibility of renormalizing smoking behavior and attracting new users to nicotine products. Further research is needed to fully understand the public health impact of e-cigarettes and inform appropriate policy decisions.

Rass, Olga, Lauren R. Pacek, Patrick S. Johnson, and Matthew W. Johnson. “Characterizing Use Patterns and Perceptions of Relative Harm in Dual Users of Electronic and Tobacco Cigarettes.” Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology 23, no. 6 (December 2015): 494–503. https://doi.org/10.1037/pha0000050.