Transitions in electronic cigarette use among adults in the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study, Waves 1 and 2 (2013–2015)

Introduction:
This text provides an analysis of the use of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) among adults in the United States, with a focus on the types of devices used and associated user behaviors. The study uses data from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study, a nationally representative longitudinal study, to examine the proportion of current adult ENDS users using either "closed" or "open" systems and their demographic characteristics, use patterns, and device characteristics.

Key Points:

* The study found that among the 5.0% of current users at Wave 3 of the PATH Study, 43.9% used closed systems and 53.7% used open systems.
* Compared to closed system users, open system users were more likely to be male, aged 18-24, and non-Hispanic White. They were also more likely to be recent or long-term former smokers and use ENDS daily.
* Patterns of use and device modifications varied by primary device type. Open system users were more likely to use ENPs daily, use fruit/sweet/spice/alcohol flavors, and modify their device voltage.
* The study did not identify temporal relationships or control for potential confounders.

Main Message:
The study provides important insights into the use of ENDS among adults in the United States and demonstrates the need for further research on the relationship between device selection and subsequent use patterns. As the market for ENDS continues to evolve, it is crucial to understand the potential impacts of different device types on smoking behavior and public health. The results of this study can inform regulatory efforts to protect the public from the potential harms of these products.

Coleman, Blair, Brian Rostron, Sarah E Johnson, Alexander Persoskie, Jennifer Pearson, Cassandra Stanton, Kelvin Choi, et al. “Transitions in Electronic Cigarette Use among Adults in the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study, Waves 1 and 2 (2013–2015).” Tobacco Control, April 25, 2018, tobaccocontrol-2017-054174. https://doi.org/10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2017-054174.