an exploratory non-randomized study of a 3-month electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) intervention with people accessing a homeless supported temporary accommodation service (STa) in Ireland.

Introduction:
This text is a summary of a scientific study examining the use of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) as a smoking cessation tool for people experiencing homelessness. The study aimed to explore the efficacy, challenges, and opportunities of using ENDS as an alternative to smoking tobacco. The study also considers the balance of harms between using vaping to support smoking cessation and continued smoking.

Key Points:

* The study had a small sample size of 23 participants, with a high loss to follow-up.
* The study found that self-reported reductions in cigarette consumption were statistically significant, but reductions in carbon monoxide measurements were not.
* Decreases in Fagerström Nicotine Dependence Test scores were statistically significant, but decreases in MPSS "urge to smoke" and "strength of urges" composite scores were not.
* Reported side effects included coughing, runny nose, bleeding nose, slight sweating, dizziness, increased phlegm, and a burning sensation at the back of the throat.
* Barriers to engagement included peer norms, vaping restrictions in accommodation, and adverse life events.
* Positive effects reported included increased energy, less coughing, better breathing, and financial benefits.
* an improvement in the domain "poor concentration" was also found to be statistically significant.

Main Message:
The study suggests that ENDS-based interventions may be effective in supporting smoking cessation for people experiencing homelessness. however, the study also highlights the need for further research to improve follow-up rates, consider including behavioral components, and monitor health effects in relation to ongoing concerns around risks and the balance of harms. The study also highlights the need to consider the balance of harms between using ENDS interventions and smoking in light of recent controversies and concerns around "vaping" products.

Scheibein F, McGirr K, Morrison a, Roche W, Wells JSG. an exploratory non-randomized study of a 3-month electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) intervention with people accessing a homeless supported temporary accommodation service (STa) in Ireland. harm reduction journal. 2020;17(1):73. doi:10.1186/s12954-020-00406-y