Summary
Introduction:
This text summarizes a research study examining perceptions of the harm, addictiveness, and smoking cessation effectiveness of e-cigarettes among australian young adults. The study found that a substantial minority of young adults are unaware of the harms associated with e-cigarettes and believe that e-cigarettes can help smokers quit or reduce their consumption of conventional cigarettes.
Key Points:
* The study surveyed a sample of 1116 australian 18 to 25 year olds.
* Participants were asked about their perceptions of the harm, addictiveness, and smoking cessation effectiveness of e-cigarettes.
* The study found that 72% of participants believed e-cigarettes have some level of harm, and 57% believed they are addictive.
* however, 20% of participants did not know if e-cigarettes are harmful, and 34% did not know if they are addictive.
* additionally, 42% of participants believed e-cigarettes can help smokers quit, and 49% believed they can help smokers reduce their tobacco cigarette consumption.
* Smokers, former smokers, and e-cigarette users held more favorable beliefs about the efficacy of e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid.
* The study also found that a substantial minority of young adults are unaware of the potential harms associated with e-cigarettes.
Main Message:
The main message of this study is that there is a need for public health campaigns to communicate the potential harms associated with e-cigarette use and the lack of clear evidence surrounding their role as an effective cessation tool. additionally, impartial research is urgently needed to resolve the scientific uncertainty regarding the potential risks and benefits associated with e-cigarette use. It is important for young adults, particularly those who smoke or use e-cigarettes, to be informed about the potential risks and benefits of e-cigarettes.
Citation
Jongenelis MI, Kameron C, Rudaizky D, Slevin T, Pettigrew S. Perceptions of the harm, addictiveness, and smoking cessation effectiveness of e-cigarettes among australian young adults. addictive Behaviors. 2019;90:217-221. doi:10.1016/j.addbeh.2018.11.004
