Summary
Introduction:
This text discusses a retrospective cross-sectional study examining the associations between recalled first e-cigarette flavor and device type used and current vaping frequency and dependence in young adults. The study aimed to estimate the associations of first-flavor and device vaped with current e-cigarette use and dependence.
Key Points:
* The study used data from the happiness and health Study, a prospective cohort survey of individuals originally recruited during ninth grade in 2013.
* The study sample consisted of 971 young adults who reported using one of seven device types.
* The study assessed past-30-day vaping and vaping dependence using a variant of the hooked on Nicotine Checklist (hONC).
* The study found that first-flavor of mint/menthol and first-device mod, box, non-Juul pod, and other were associated with nicotine dependence.
* First device Juul, mod, box, and non-Juul pod were also associated with more dependence symptoms.
* The study controlled for sociodemographic factors, depressive symptoms, sensation seeking, number of friends who vape, time of vaping onset, and use of combustible tobacco products.
* The study used hurdle regression models and multiple imputations to manage nonresponse.
Main Message:
The findings suggest that certain flavors (mint/menthol) and devices (pods, mods) merit consideration in regulation because of their possible link with continued use and dependence among young people. The study highlights the importance of considering product characteristics, such as flavor and device type, in e-cigarette regulations and tobacco control policies to prevent young people from developing nicotine dependence.
Citation
Sargent JD, Stoolmiller M, Dai h, et al. First E-Cigarette Flavor and Device Type Used: associations With Vaping Persistence, Frequency, and Dependence in Young adults. Nicotine & tobacco research : official journal of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco. 2022;24(3):380-387. doi:10.1093/ntr/ntab172
