Youth use of e-cigarettes: Does dependence vary by device type?

Introduction:
This text reviews a study examining the relationship between e-cigarette device type and nicotine dependence among youth. The study found that youth who used JUUL and pod mod devices reported higher levels of nicotine dependence and endorsed more symptoms of dependence than those who used other types of e-cigarettes.

Key Points:

* The study used a convenience sample of youth who used e-cigarettes in the United States, collected via an online qualtrics panel survey.
* Participants were asked about their primary e-cigarette device type, smoking status, and completed the hooked on Nicotine Checklist (hONC) to assess nicotine dependence.
* The primary device used by category was JUUL (n = 87), pod mod (n = 42), and other type of e-cigarette (n = 56).
* Participants endorsed an average of 4.5 / 10 hONC symptoms (SD=3.6).
* Compared to other e-cigarettes, youth who used JUUL and pod mod devices endorsed higher frequency of 8/10 hONC symptoms.
* Dual use of cigarettes and e-cigarettes was also associated with higher hONC scores.

Main Message:
The study highlights the importance of considering the role of e-cigarette device type in nicotine dependence among youth. The findings suggest that youth who use JUUL and pod mod devices may be at higher risk for developing nicotine dependence, and that dual use of cigarettes and e-cigarettes also increases this risk. These results emphasize the need for effective cessation interventions and comprehensive tobacco regulatory policies to reduce youth e-cigarette use and prevent nicotine dependence.

Tackett aP, hébert ET, Smith CE, et al. Youth use of e-cigarettes: Does dependence vary by device type? addictive behaviors. 2021;119:106918. doi:10.1016/j.addbeh.2021.106918