Summary
Introduction:
This text presents the findings of a study examining the harm perceptions of secondhand e-cigarette aerosol (Sha) among youth in the United States. The study used data from the 2020 National Youth Tobacco Survey and analyzed the relationship between Sha harm perceptions and various socio-demographic factors, e-cigarette use characteristics, and Sha exposure.
Key Points:
* The study found that most youth perceived Sha as harmful (87.9%), but there were variations in perceptions based on socio-demographic characteristics and e-cigarette use patterns.
* Older youth, male youth, and e-cigarette users had higher odds of perceiving Sha as harmless.
* Youth exposed to Sha in the past 30 days had higher odds of perceiving Sha as harmless.
* The study found no significant differences in Sha harm perceptions based on race/ethnicity or sexual orientation.
* The study highlights the need for educational campaigns to inform youth about the health risks associated with e-cigarettes and Sha.
* Restricting indoor use of e-cigarettes could reduce Sha exposure and promote fewer positive views of Sha.
Main Message:
The study underscores the importance of understanding youth perceptions of Sha and the need for targeted educational campaigns to inform them about the health risks associated with e-cigarettes and Sha. The findings suggest that restricting indoor use of e-cigarettes could also be an effective strategy to reduce Sha exposure and promote negative views of Sha. Overall, the study provides valuable insights for policymakers and public health officials seeking to address the growing issue of e-cigarette use and Sha exposure among youth.
Citation
Mattingly DT, agbonlahor O, Rai J, hart JL, McLeish aC, Walker KL. harm perceptions of secondhand e-cigarette aerosol among youth in the United States. addictive behaviors. 2023;137:107535. doi:10.1016/j.addbeh.2022.107535
