Smoking-related weight and appetite concerns and use of electronic cigarettes among daily cigarette smokers.

Introduction:
This text summarizes a study examining the relationship between smoking-related weight and appetite concerns and the use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) among daily cigarette smokers. The study tested the hypothesis that the tendency to use combustible cigarettes for weight and appetite control would be associated with higher odds of current e-cigarette use.

Key Points:

* The study surveyed 577 adult daily smokers recruited through qualtrics Online Sample.
* Smoking-related weight and appetite control was assessed using the Smoking-Related Weight and Eating Episodes Test (SWEET).
* The study found that higher scores on two SWEET subscales were significantly associated with increased odds of current e-cigarette use: smoking to suppress appetite and smoking to prevent overeating.
* These effects were significant after adjusting for sex, age, compensatory eating behavior, body mass index, and tobacco dependence.
* Scores on the other two SWEET subscales (smoking to cope with body dissatisfaction and with appetite-related withdrawal) were not significantly associated with current e-cigarette use.
* Participants used e-cigarettes a mean of 4.65 times per day and use of their e-cigarette after waking was reported as occurring within 5 minutes for 13.9%.
* The majority of e-cigarette users reported filling their e-cigarettes every three days or more (60.8%).

Main Message:
The study suggests that daily cigarette smokers who use cigarettes to manage their appetite and eating behavior may be more likely to use e-cigarettes, potentially because e-cigarettes will also serve this function. Future research should evaluate reasons for this association, including beliefs about e-cigarettes in management of appetite and eating behavior, and the acute effects of e-cigarettes on body weight and eating behavior relative to combustible cigarettes. This information is crucial in developing effective regulations and public health initiatives regarding e-cigarette use.

Bloom EL, Farris SG, DiBello aM, abrantes aM. Smoking-related weight and appetite concerns and use of electronic cigarettes among daily cigarette smokers. Psychology, health & Medicine. 2019;24(2):221-228. doi:10.1080/13548506.2018.1537495