Patterns of Use of Vaping Products Among Smokers: Findings from the 2016-2018 International Tobacco Control (ITC) New Zealand Surveys.

Introduction:
This article provides an analysis of the patterns of use and attitudes towards e-cigarettes among smokers and ex-smokers in New Zealand. The study is based on data from the International Tobacco Control New Zealand Survey and aims to inform the development of regulations and legislation to reduce smoking and achieve a smoke-free goal in New Zealand.

Key Points:

* The study finds that trial and use of e-cigarettes are common among New Zealand smokers and ex-smokers.
* Prevalence of use is similar for Māori and non-Māori participants and varies little by socio-economic status.
* Most smokers and ex-smokers use e-cigarettes to help them quit or reduce their smoking.
* The most common motivating factor for use is cost, and the most common barrier to use is that e-cigarettes are less satisfying than smoking.
* Participants commonly use e-cigarettes with nicotine-containing e-liquids and a wide range of flavors.
* Participants most commonly purchase e-cigarettes from specialist stores.
* The study suggests that e-cigarettes may be supporting quitting among a significant number of people who smoke in New Zealand.

Main Message:
The study highlights the potential of e-cigarettes as a tool for smoking cessation and reduction in New Zealand. The findings suggest that e-cigarettes are being used by smokers and ex-smokers to quit or reduce their smoking, and that the impact of e-cigarettes will be broadly neutral and will neither exacerbate nor decrease disparities in smoking. However, the study also emphasizes the need for regulations and legislation to minimize the risk of youth use of e-cigarettes and ensure that smokers are better informed about vaping. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the patterns of use and attitudes towards e-cigarettes among smokers and ex-smokers in New Zealand and can inform the development of evidence-based policy and interventions.

Edwards R, Stanley J, Waa AM, et al. Patterns of Use of Vaping Products Among Smokers: Findings from the 2016-2018 International Tobacco Control (ITC) New Zealand Surveys. International journal of environmental research and public health. 2020;17(18). doi:10.3390/ijerph17186629