Electronic Cigarette Use Among Working Adults — United States, 2014

Introduction:
This text discusses a study on the use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) among working adults in the United States. The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of e-cigarette use among working adults by industry and occupation, and to identify factors associated with their use. The results of the study can provide valuable insights for policymakers and employers to develop strategies to reduce tobacco use and promote tobacco-free norms in the workplace.

Key Points:

* The study used data from the 2014 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), a nationally representative survey of the noninstitutionalized US civilian population.
* The study found that 3.8% of working adults were current e-cigarette users, and the prevalence varied by industry and occupation.
* The highest prevalence of e-cigarette use was among workers in the accommodation and food services industry (6.9%) and among workers in food preparation and serving-related occupations (6.8%).
* The study also found that higher prevalences of e-cigarette use were associated with certain groups, such as males, non-Hispanic whites, young adults, and those with lower income and education levels.
* E-cigarette use was also higher among current and former cigarette smokers, and among users of other combustible tobacco products and smokeless tobacco.
* The study had some limitations, such as the self-reported nature of the data and the potential for nonresponse bias.
* The findings suggest that continued public health surveillance of e-cigarette use and implementation of proven strategies to reduce tobacco use and promote tobacco-free norms in the workplace are warranted.

Main Message:
The study highlights the importance of monitoring e-cigarette use among working adults, particularly in industries and occupations with high prevalence rates. The findings underscore the need for employers, businesses, trade associations, and worker representatives to work in partnership with health departments to educate workers about the health risks of tobacco use and the benefits of quitting tobacco use completely. The study also emphasizes the need for further research to understand the long-term health effects of e-cigarette use and its impact on patterns of conventional tobacco use. Overall, the text emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to reducing tobacco use and promoting healthy behaviors in the workplace.

Syamlal, Girija, Ahmed Jamal, Brian A. King, and Jacek M. Mazurek. “Electronic Cigarette Use Among Working Adults — United States, 2014.” MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report 65, no. 22 (June 10, 2016): 557–61. https://doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm6522a1.