Summary
Introduction:
This text is a research article that investigates the prevalence of dripping behavior, a method of using electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), among young adults. The study also examines the characteristics of drippers compared to non-drippers and the expectancies associated with dripping behavior. The research design includes a cross-sectional survey of young adults recruited from a community college. The survey measures frequency of ENDS use, dripping behaviors, type of ENDS device used, tobacco use behaviors, and expectancies about the consequences of vaping.
Key Points:
* The study found that over 2 in 5 young adult ever-vapers (43.7%) reported dripping.
* Male gender, identifying as White, and use of other tobacco products (hookah, cigars, cigarettes) were associated with dripping behavior.
* E-cigarette users who reported lifetime dripping were more likely to consider vaping stimulating, socially facilitating, and flavorful. They also ascribed lower health risks to vaping and felt it could reduce negative affect, weight gain, nicotine cravings, and boredom.
* Dripping was more likely than standard e-cigarettes to produce toxic aerosols due to the increased likelihood of dry puff conditions.
* There is little research investigating ENDS users’ perceptions about the expected consequences of dripping.
* The study is a secondary analysis of a larger project to develop a measure of electronic nicotine vaping outcomes.
* Participants were paid $10 upon completing the survey and a medical school institutional review board approved all research.
* The study found that 56.3% of ever-vapers reported never-dripping versus 43.8% for ever dripping.
Main Message:
The study highlights the high prevalence of dripping behavior among young adults and the association between dripping and positive expectancies towards vaping. The research also emphasizes the potential health risks associated with dripping due to the increased likelihood of dry puff conditions and toxic aerosol production. The findings suggest the need for further research on the drivers and consequences of vaping and dripping behavior among young adults and the potential health consequences of dripping, particularly given concerns about respiratory effects. The study also underscores the importance of regulatory measures to address the health risks associated with ENDS use and dripping behavior.
Citation
Massey ZB, Brockenberry LO, Murray TE, harrell PT. Dripping Technology Use among Young adult E-Cigarette Users. Tobacco use insights. 2021;14. doi:10.1177/1179173X211035448
