Psychosocial stressors and current e-cigarette use in the youth risk behavior survey.

The study's findings suggest that psychosocial stressors, such as peer pressure, academic challenges, and family issues, are associated with an increased likelihood of e-cigarette use among adolescents. The prevalence and odds of e-cigarette use increased in tandem with the burden scores of psychosocial stressors. Moreover, the strength of the association between psychosocial stressors and e-cigarette use is comparable to that of combustible cigarette use, which has been previously linked to various psychosocial stressors. These results highlight the complex interactions between psychosocial stressors and adolescent tobacco use, emphasizing the need for targeted intervention strategies. Such strategies should focus on promoting healthier coping mechanisms, providing mental health support, and implementing stringent controls on e-cigarette and other tobacco product access to prevent youth tobacco use during times of stress.

Erhabor J, Boakye E, Osuji N, et al. Psychosocial stressors and current e-cigarette use in the youth risk behavior survey. BMC public health. 2023;23(1):1080. doi:10.1186/s12889-023-16031-w