Nicotine pouch awareness, use and perceptions among young adults from six metropolitan statistical areas in the United States

Introduction:
This text analyzes a research paper published in the European Network for Smoking and Tobacco Prevention (ENSP) regarding nicotine pouch awareness, use, and perceptions among young adults in six metropolitan statistical areas in the United States. The study aims to characterize nicotine pouch awareness, ever use, use intentions, exposure, and perceptions among young adults. The paper highlights the potential appeal of nicotine pouches to young adults and the need for marketing and use surveillance to monitor their impact on those likely to use them.

Key Points:

* The study found that nicotine pouch awareness and ever use were reported by 34.6% and 9.8%, respectively.
* Males, non-White participants, and those using cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and smokeless tobacco had greater odds of awareness and ever use of nicotine pouches.
* among those aware of nicotine pouches, males, White participants, and smokeless tobacco users had greater odds of ever use.
* Overall, 31.4% reported past-month advertising exposure, most often via tobacco retailers.
* Ever users most commonly purchased them at gas stations.
* Nicotine pouches were perceived as less harmful and less addictive than cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and smokeless tobacco, and more socially acceptable than cigarettes and smokeless tobacco.

Main Message:
The study suggests that nicotine pouches are gaining popularity among young adults, particularly males and those who use other tobacco products. The study highlights the need for marketing and use surveillance to monitor their impact on those likely to use them. The findings also emphasize the importance of regulatory efforts to reduce the negative impact of nicotine pouches on population health. The study highlights the potential for nicotine pouches to be a harm reduction tool, but also raises concerns about their appeal to young adults and the need for regulation to prevent nicotine addiction and potential health risks. Overall, the study underscores the need for continued research and regulation to ensure the safe and effective use of nicotine pouches.

Tosakoon, S., Romm, K. F., & Berg, C. J. (2023). Nicotine pouch awareness, use and perceptions among young adults from six metropolitan statistical areas in the United States. Tobacco Prevention & Cessation, 9, 19. https://doi.org/10.18332/tpc/163243