Summary
Introduction:
This text is a summary of a research study examining the prevalence and correlates of e-cigarette use among university students. The study surveyed a large sample of students and collected data on their e-cigarette use, alcohol and drug use, mental health issues, and impulsive and compulsive traits. The key points and main message of the study are summarized below.
Key points:
* The prevalence of past 12-month e-cigarette use among university students was 9.2%.
* E-cigarette use was associated with the use of multiple other drugs, including alcohol, opiates, and marijuana.
* Those who used e-cigarettes were significantly more likely to have mental health histories of aDhD, PTSD, gambling disorder, and anxiety, report low self-esteem, and endorse traits of impulsivity.
* The study found that e-cigarette use was more common in young adults compared to older adults.
* E-cigarette usage was not associated with significantly elevated trans-diagnostic compulsivity, but was associated with higher rates of impulsivity on the Barratt Impulsivity Scale.
* The use of e-cigarettes was significantly associated with symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, gambling disorder, and aDhD.
* Longitudinal studies are needed to better understand the initiating and maintaining aspects of these associations.
Main message:
The study indicates that e-cigarette use is common in university students and appears to be associated with a variety of mental health and drug use problems. Clinicians should be aware that certain mental health conditions are more common in e-cigarette users. The study also highlights the need for further research on the effects of chronic nicotine consumption on brain function and mental health, particularly in young people. It is important for regulatory agencies to consider these findings when developing policies around e-cigarette use.
Citation
Grant JE, Lust K, Fridberg DJ, King aC, Chamberlain SR. E-cigarette use (vaping) is associated with illicit drug use, mental health problems, and impulsivity in university students. annals of Clinical Psychiatry. 2019;31(1):27-35. doi:10.1080/10401230490281366
