Summary
Introduction:
This text provides an analysis of a longitudinal study examining the prevalence and transitions of nicotine and nicotine-free e-cigarette use among Norwegian adolescents. The study also explores the differences in personal characteristics between nicotine and nicotine-free e-cigarette users.
Key Points:
* The study uses data from the MyLife longitudinal study on adolescent substance use in Norway, with a nationwide heterogeneous sample of 2018 adolescents.
* The study measures vaping, smoking, snus use, sensation-seeking, conduct problems, and symptoms of depression using an online questionnaire administered at three timepoints.
* Past 12-month vaping prevalence was stable at around 12-15%, with most adolescents reporting nicotine-free vaping.
* Transitions between vaping behaviors were unstable, with many nicotine-free vapers becoming non-users or nicotine vapers, and vice versa.
* Nicotine vapers had more conduct problems, symptoms of depression, and used other tobacco products more frequently than nicotine-free vapers.
Main Message:
The study highlights the importance of distinguishing between nicotine and nicotine-free e-cigarette use among adolescents, as nicotine vapers are more likely to have conduct problems, symptoms of depression, and use other tobacco products more frequently than nicotine-free vapers. Despite the majority of nicotine vapers becoming non-users, it is important to monitor nicotine exposure and subsequent risks of nicotine addiction. The study also highlights the need for targeted intervention or prevention efforts to address the risk factors associated with nicotine vaping among adolescents.
Citation
Tokle R, Brunborg GS, Vedøy TF. adolescents’ Use of Nicotine-Free and Nicotine E-Cigarettes: a Longitudinal Study of Vaping Transitions and Vaper Characteristics. Nicotine & tobacco research : official journal of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco. 2022;24(3):400-407. doi:10.1093/ntr/ntab192
