Summary
Introduction:
This text is a summary of a scientific study that investigates the use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) in a manner not intended by the manufacturer, referred to as "unorthodox use." The study analyzes YouTube videos to understand the types and prevalence of unorthodox uses of e-cigarettes and how these practices are transmitted via popular social media. The study has important implications for regulatory agencies, such as the US Food and Drug administration, as it highlights the need to consider unorthodox use in the regulation of e-cigarettes.
Key points:
* The study analyzed 150 YouTube videos related to e-cigarettes, with a total of 115 551 563 views.
* Nine categories of unorthodox uses of e-cigarettes were identified, with unorthodox use being three times as prevalent as orthodox use.
* The most common categories of unorthodox use included recreational e-cigarette use (77%), modification of mechanical parts and components (57%), and unorthodox substance application (dripping) (44.6%).
* There were more than twice as many social media links in videos depicting unorthodox compared to orthodox use, but the level of engagement was lower for unorthodox use.
* The study highlights the need for further investigation into the prevalence of unorthodox use among e-cigarette users and the influence of social media on consumer uptake of unorthodox and orthodox uses of e-cigarettes.
* The study provides valuable information for the US Food and Drug administration to consider in the regulation of e-cigarettes, including the potential risks associated with unorthodox use and the need to ensure the safety of these products.
* The definitions of unorthodox use can be incorporated into the Population assessment of Tobacco on health Study to better understand the prevalence of these behaviors.
Main message:
The study highlights the importance of considering unorthodox use in the regulation of e-cigarettes, as these practices can pose potential risks to users and are transmitted via popular social media. The study provides valuable information for regulatory agencies, such as the US Food and Drug administration, to ensure the safety and regulation of e-cigarettes, and emphasizes the need for further investigation into the prevalence and influence of unorthodox use among e-cigarette users.
Citation
Guy MC, helt J, Palafox S, et al. Orthodox and Unorthodox Uses of Electronic Cigarettes: a Surveillance of YouTube Video Content. Nicotine & tobacco research : official journal of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco. 2019;21(10):1378-1384. doi:10.1093/ntr/nty132
