Summary
Introduction:
This text is a summary of a research paper examining why and how dual users of electronic cigarettes (ECs) and combustible cigarettes (CCs) quit vaping. The study surveyed adults with a history of regular EC and CC use to understand their motivations and methods for quitting ECs and how this relates to quitting CCs. The research is relevant for understanding the factors that contribute to EC cessation among dual users and can inform regulatory and public health efforts to reduce tobacco-related harm.
Key Points:
* The study surveyed 366 US adults with a history of regular EC and CC use, of whom 204 had a history of dual use and a history of one or more attempts to quit ECs.
* Most respondents (95%) were using ECs at the time of the survey and had a median of five EC quit attempts.
* The most common motivations to quit ECs were health (74%), money/cost (45%), and to reduce risk of COVID-19 (25%).
* The most common EC quit methods were cutting down (68%), getting advice from a doctor (28%), quitting 'cold turkey' (24%), nicotine replacement therapy (24%), and switching to ECs with less nicotine (24%).
* Most motivations and methods to quit ECs and CCs were moderately to highly correlated, suggesting similarity in dual users’ approach to quitting the two products.
Main Message:
The study highlights the complexity of EC cessation among dual users and the need for a better understanding of the factors that contribute to quitting ECs. The findings suggest that dual users may engage in similar strategies to quit both ECs and CCs, and that healthcare providers can play a role in promoting EC cessation through advice and support. The study also underscores the importance of considering the potential impact of COVID-19 on nicotine and tobacco use and the need for further research to inform regulatory and public health efforts to reduce tobacco-related harm.
Citation
Klemperer EM, Villanti aC. Why and how do dual users quit vaping? Survey findings from adults who use electronic and combustible cigarettes. Tobacco induced diseases. 2021;19:12. doi:10.18332/tid/132547
