Electronic Cigarette Use in 12 European Countries: Results From the TackSHS Survey.

Introduction:
This article summarizes the results of a study on electronic cigarette use in 12 European countries, conducted by the TackSHS project. The study aimed to provide updated data on the prevalence, patterns of use, and characteristics of electronic cigarette users in these countries. The study used a standardized assessment tool and surveyed a sample of around 1,000 individuals aged 15 years and older in each country, representative of the general population in terms of age, sex, area of residence, and socioeconomic characteristics.

Key Points:

* The study found that 2.4% of the participants reported current use of electronic cigarettes, ranging from 0.6% in Spain to 7.2% in England.
* Of the 272 electronic cigarette users, 52.6% were dual users (ie, users of both electronic and conventional cigarettes) and 58.8% used liquids with nicotine.
* 65.1% of electronic cigarette users reported using electronic cigarettes in at least one indoor setting where smoking is forbidden, including workplaces (34.9%) and bars and restaurants (41.5%).
* Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that electronic cigarette use was lower among older individuals and higher among individuals with high level of education.
* Participants from countries with higher tobacco cigarette prices more frequently reported electronic cigarette use.
* The study also found that electronic cigarette use was more prevalent among men and current or ex-smokers.
* The majority of electronic cigarette users used rechargeable devices and consumed electronic cigarettes daily in indoor settings.

Main Message:
The study highlights the widespread use of electronic cigarettes in Europe, with a majority of users also smoking conventional cigarettes and using electronic cigarettes with nicotine. The study also emphasizes the use of electronic cigarettes in indoor smoke-free settings, suggesting that smokers might decide to use electronic cigarettes in smoke-free areas to circumvent smoking bans. The study underscores the need for regulation of electronic cigarette use, particularly in settings where smoking is already forbidden, to discourage dual use and protect non-smokers from exposure to electronic cigarette aerosols.

Gallus S, Lugo A, Stival C, et al. Electronic Cigarette Use in 12 European Countries: Results From the TackSHS Survey. Journal of epidemiology. 2023;33(6):276-284. doi:10.2188/jea.JE20210329