Summary
Introduction:
This article reports the findings of a qualitative study examining young adult smokers' perceptions about e-cigarette flavors, their intentions of using e-cigarettes given a flavor ban, and their perceived role of e-cigarette flavors in their smoking behaviors. The study aimed to address research gaps regarding how flavored e-cigarette use influences the smoking behavior of young adults.
Key Points:
* The study used in-depth interviews with a purposive sample of 25 young adult smokers who had used e-cigarettes to reduce cigarette smoking.
* Most participants reported enjoying e-cigarettes with fruit, candy, dessert, or menthol/mint flavors and valued having a wide selection of flavors.
* Most participants reported that they would likely quit or significantly reduce e-cigarette use if e-cigarette flavors were banned.
* Participants had little knowledge of the nicotine concentration in their e-cigarettes or the harm associated with the use of e-cigarette flavorings.
* Participants perceived e-cigarette flavorings as helpful in cutting down smoking by allowing for increased e-cigarette use frequency and duration.
* The lack of knowledge about flavored e-cigarettes' harm and risks, together with the escalated consumption of flavored e-cigarettes, are causes for concern and warrant further attention.
Main Message:
The study highlights the positive perceptions of young adult smokers towards e-cigarette flavors and their role in smoking cessation. However, banning or restricting flavored e-cigarettes may discourage participants from using e-cigarettes for smoking cessation. The lack of knowledge about flavored e-cigarettes' harm and risks, together with the escalated consumption of flavored e-cigarettes, suggests the need for further research and regulation to ensure the safety and public health impact of e-cigarettes.
Citation
Chen JC, Green K, Fryer C, Borzekowski D. Perceptions about e-cigarette flavors: A qualitative investigation of young adult cigarette smokers who use e-cigarettes. Addiction Research & Theory. 2019;27(5):420-428. doi:10.1080/16066359.2018.1540693
