Perceived health risks of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) users: The role of cigarette smoking status.

Introduction:
In this article, the authors examine how current electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) users differ in their perceptions of tobacco and ENDS-related health risks as a function of cigarette smoking status. The study classifies 1329 current ENDS users based on cigarette smoker status and employs various statistical methods to assess group differences in perceptions of health risks.

Key Points:

* The study consists of 38% Current Cigarette Smokers, 40% Former Cigarette Smokers, and 22% Non-Smokers.
* Significant differences were observed in race, employment, and marital status across cigarette smoking status, but not in gender, education, income, or sexual orientation.
* Participants reported considerable perceived knowledge about health risks associated with tobacco use, but less regarding ENDS use.
* Current Smokers rated ENDS use as riskier than Non-Smokers, and considered cigarette use less risky for both users and bystanders.
* Current Smokers were more likely to perceive cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer as the health risks associated with ENDS use.
* Former Smokers were more likely to perceive such risks with traditional tobacco use.
* Regardless of smoking status, perceived knowledge about the health risks of tobacco or ENDS use was positively associated with perceived likelihood of high risks of cardiovascular diseases and cancer.

Main Message:
The study highlights the importance of considering cigarette smoking status when examining perceptions of health risks associated with ENDS use. The authors suggest that improved health messaging can be achieved by taking into account the differing perceptions of health risks among current smokers, former smokers, and non-smokers. This has significant implications for public health messaging and policy aimed at reducing the use of tobacco and ENDS products.

Ma JZ, hart JL, Walker KL, et al. Perceived health risks of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) users: The role of cigarette smoking status. addictive Behaviors. 2019;91:156-163. doi:10.1016/j.addbeh.2018.10.044