“I cannot live without my vape”: Electronic cigarette user-identified indicators of vaping dependence.

Introduction:
This text discusses the study "I cannot live without my vape": Electronic Cigarette User-Identified Indicators of Vaping Dependence" by Soule et al., which aimed to examine user-identified indicators of electronic cigarette (ECIG) dependence using concept mapping, a mixed-method participatory approach. The study resulted in the identification of ten clusters of ECIG dependence, providing insights into the unique aspects of ECIG dependence.

Key Points:

* The study used concept mapping, a method that incorporates brainstorming, sorting, and rating tasks, to identify ECIG dependence themes.
* Ten clusters of ECIG dependence were identified, including Craving, Negative affect, Vaping as a Necessity, Therapeutic Effects, Preparedness, attachment to Device, Impact on Daily activity, Physical Withdrawal Symptoms, Monetary Cost, and Shame or Embarrassment.
* Women, individuals without a bachelor's degree, and those with higher ECIG use frequency and dependence scores rated certain clusters higher, indicating more perceived dependence.
* The study highlights unique aspects of ECIG dependence, such as attachment to the device and shame or embarrassment, which differentiate it from cigarette dependence.
* The findings can inform psychometric scale development for ECIG dependence, emphasizing the importance of capturing unique ECIG dependence domains.
* Future studies should explore youth ECIG dependence, as prevalence is high and ECIG dependence may manifest differently among this population.

Main Message:
The study underscores the unique aspects of ECIG dependence, emphasizing the need for tailored assessment tools to identify ECIG user characteristics and their association with specific dependence domains. health professionals should be aware of and prepared to address the emerging public health threat of ECIG dependence as its popularity grows.

Soule EK, Lee JGL, Egan KL, et al. “I cannot live without my vape”: Electronic cigarette user-identified indicators of vaping dependence. Drug and alcohol dependence. 2020;209:107886. doi:10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.107886