Summary
Introduction:
This text provides an analysis of the relationship between vaping and smoking in aotearoa New Zealand. It discusses the prevalence of vaping and smoking, and the longitudinal pathways between smoking status and vape use. The study aims to determine the likelihood of changing to, or taking up, the other behavior (smoking or vaping) in the transition between time points.
Key Points:
* The prevalence of smoking decreased over time, while the prevalence of vaping increased.
* People were just as likely to transition from vaping to smoking as smoking to vaping.
* The study used data from Times 10, 11, and 12 of the New Zealand attitudes and Values Study collected across 2018-2020.
* The sample included participants who had responded to items related to smoking and/or vaping at any of the three time points.
* Smoking and vaping status were assessed using binary outcomes (0 = No, 1 = Yes) to the item 'do you currently [smoke tobacco cigarettes OR vape or use e-cigarettes]?'
* Binomial logistic regressions were used to determine whether the likelihood of changing to, or taking up, the other smoking-related behavior was predicted by the initial behavior (smoking or vaping).
* The study adjusted for demographic covariates of age, socioeconomic status, gender, and ethnicity.
Main Message:
The study emphasizes the need for greater consideration regarding vaping-related policies and restrictions. The findings suggest that vaping is just as likely to have a gateway effect to smoking as it is to have a cessation effect. The study highlights the importance of developing policies that maximize switching from smoking to vaping while limiting the transition from vaping to smoking.
Citation
Mason a, Riordan BC, Winter T, Conner TS, Sibley CG, Scarf D. Effects of vaping on uptake and cessation of smoking: Longitudinal analysis in aotearoa new zealand adults. Drug and alcohol Review. Published online June 27, 2023. doi:10.1111/dar.13702
