E-Cigarette Dependence and Weight-Related attitudes/Behaviors associated With Eating Disorders in adolescent Girls.

Introduction:
This article is a summary of a research study examining the relationship between e-cigarette use and eating disorder behaviors in adolescent girls. The study aims to understand the motivations and perceptions underlying e-cigarette usage in adolescents and the potential link between e-cigarette dependence and behavioral/attitudinal symptoms associated with eating disorders.

Key Points:

* The study surveyed 299 girls between the ages of 13 and 17 who were current e-cigarette users.
* The survey included the Electronic Cigarette Dependence Index (ECDI), the Minnesota Eating Behavior Survey (MEBS), and demographic questions.
* The study found that e-cigarette dependence, as measured by the ECDI, was correlated with weight preoccupation, binge eating, and compensatory behavior subscales of the MEBS.
* The correlation between e-cigarette dependence and weight preoccupation remained significant after controlling for body mass index (BMI).
* Daily e-cigarette users were more dependent than non-daily users, and dual users (e-cigarette and combustible cigarette users) had higher e-cigarette dependence compared to non-daily users.
* The majority of participants reported either no change or higher e-cigarette use since the COVID-19 outbreak.
* The study suggests that e-cigarette use is associated with maladaptive attitudes and behaviors towards weight and eating that put individuals at risk for developing eating disorders.

Main Message:
The study highlights the need for further research into the relationship between e-cigarette use and eating disorder behaviors in adolescent girls. The findings suggest that e-cigarette dependence is associated with maladaptive attitudes and behaviors towards weight and eating, which may put individuals at risk for developing eating disorders. The study also emphasizes the importance of mental health screening for adolescent girls who use e-cigarettes, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, where adolescents may have increased access to e-cigarettes. Overall, the study underscores the need for comprehensive strategies to address the public health concerns associated with e-cigarette use in adolescents.

Naveed a, Dang N, Gonzalez P, et al. E-Cigarette Dependence and Weight-Related attitudes/Behaviors associated With Eating Disorders in adolescent Girls. Frontiers in psychiatry. 2021;12:713094. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2021.713094