Prevalence, Harm Perceptions, and Reasons for Using Noncombustible Tobacco Products Among Current and Former Smokers

Introduction:
This text provides an analysis of the use of noncombustible tobacco products, including electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) and smokeless tobacco products, among current and former smokers. The study estimates the prevalence of noncombustible tobacco product use, examines harm perceptions, and explores reasons for their use. The text also discusses the implications of these findings for tobacco control policy.

Key Points:

* The study found that 33.6% of the sample had ever used any noncombustible tobacco product, with rates highest for chew, snuff, or dip (19.0%) and ENDS (14.9%).
* Users of noncombustible tobacco products were more likely than nonusers to perceive the products as less harmful than cigarettes, but only ENDS were perceived by the majority of all groups as less harmful.
* The most common reasons for using noncombustible tobacco products were to use in places where smoking is not allowed, to cut down on cigarette smoking, and to help quit smoking.
* The study found few statistically significant correlates of noncombustible tobacco product use, with males, younger individuals, and non-Hispanic White participants more likely to use these products.
* Among current smokers, increased dependence was associated with any noncombustible tobacco product use, as well as e-cigarette use.
* The study found that noncombustible tobacco product use was not associated with a reduction in cigarettes per day or cessation.
* The tobacco control community is divided in their views of noncombustible tobacco products, with some advocating for their use for harm reduction and others concerned about their overall effect on tobacco use patterns and population-level health.

Main Message:
The study highlights the complexity of noncombustible tobacco product use and the need for further research to understand their impact on tobacco control. While these products may have the potential to reduce harm, they also carry risks and may promote dual use, which could negatively affect quit intentions, attempts, or success. The tobacco industry's investment in noncombustible tobacco products and marketing efforts further emphasize the need for continued surveillance and regulation to protect public health.

Richardson, Amanda, Jennifer Pearson, Haijun Xiao, Carolyn Stalgaitis, and Donna Vallone. “Prevalence, Harm Perceptions, and Reasons for Using Noncombustible Tobacco Products Among Current and Former Smokers.” American Journal of Public Health 104, no. 8 (August 2014): 1437–44. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2013.301804.