Citation

Zhao, Y., Yong, H., Borland, R., Cummings, K.M., Thrasher, J., Hitchman, S.C., Bansal-Travers, M., Fong, G.T. (2022). Do numbers of smoking friends and changes over time predict smoking relapse? Findings from the International Tobacco Control Four-Country Survey. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 138, 108763.

Abstract

Background: Past research indicates that smokers with a large number of smoking friends within their social network are less interested in quitting, less likely to attempt to quit, and less likely to successfully quit. The extent to which a pro-smoking social network may increase relapse risk among ex-smokers is unclear. This study investigated among ex-smokers whether the number of close friends who smoke and changes in this number influence relapse risk.

Methods: The study was a prospective cohort study of 551 adults who participated in the Australian and UK arms of the International Tobacco Control (ITC) project and were ex-smokers at wave 9 (2013) and followed up to wave 10 (2014). Logistic models regressed smoking relapse at follow-up on the baseline number of their five closest friends who smoked and changes in this number over time.

Results: Ex-smokers who reported having 4 or 5 smokers among their five closest friends were more likely to relapse than those who had no smokers among their five closest friends (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 4.86, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.48-15.99, p = .009). Ex-smokers who gained smoking friends over time, but not those who lost smoking friends, were also more likely to relapse compared to those with the same number of smoking friends over time (AOR = 4.52, 95% CI = 2.15-9.52, p < .001; AOR = 1.08, 95% CI = 0.49-2.36, p = .848, respectively).

Conclusions: This study demonstrated that relapse risk was elevated among ex-smokers who had more smokers among their close friends and also among those where the number of smokers in their social network increased over time.

Citation

Hammond, D., Reid, J.L., Burkhalter, R., Bansal-Travers, M., Gravely, S., Hyland, A., Kasza, K., McNeill, A. (2022). E-cigarette flavors, devices and brands used by youth before and after partial flavor restrictions in the US: Canada, England, and the US, 2017-2020. American Journal of Public Health, 112(7), 1014-1024. doi:10.2105/AJPH.2022.306780.

Abstract

Objectives: To examine the impact of US restrictions implemented in February 2020 prohibiting flavors other than menthol and tobacco in cartridge-based e-cigarettes.

Methods: We analyzed 5 cross-sectional waves of the International Tobacco Control Policy Evaluation Project Youth Tobacco and Vaping Surveys, conducted online with youths aged 16 to 19 years in the United States, Canada, and England, for differences in usual e-cigarette flavor, device, and brand reported by past-30-day vapers (n = 9512) before (2017, 2018, 2019), during (February 2020), and after (August 2020) implementation of US flavor restrictions.

Results: In August 2020, 78.7% of vapers in the United States reported using a flavor prohibited in cartridges or pods, versus 86.3% in Canada (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.73; 95% CI = 1.25, 1.40) and 79.8% in England (AOR = 1.10; 95% CI = 0.78, 1.55). Disposable e-cigarettes (exempt from flavor restrictions) increased to a greater extent among vapers in the United States (13.2% to 36.8%) versus Canada (7.7% to 14.2%; AOR = 2.01; 95% CI = 1.33, 3.04) and England (10.8% to 16.4%; AOR = 2.33; 95% CI = 1.52, 3.57). Puff Bar (disposable) emerged as the most popular brand in the United States.

Conclusions. Usual flavors used by youth vapers in the United States were unchanged after 2020 restrictions on cartridge-based e-cigarettes. Youths used brands and devices exempt from the restrictions.

Citation

Taylor, E., Aleyan, S., East, K., Cummings, K.M., Thrasher, J.F., Fong, G.T., Quah, A.C.K., Li, G., Borland, R., Hammond, D., Hitchman, S.C. (2022). Associations between noticing nicotine vaping product health warning labels, harm perceptions, and use among adult vapers, current and former smokers: Findings from the 2018 ITC Four Country Smoking and Vaping Survey. Nicotine and Tobacco Research, 24(7), 1020-1027.

Abstract

Background: The number of countries mandating a nicotine addiction warning label (‘warnings’) on nicotine vaping products (NVPs) has been increasing. This study examined associations between noticing NVP warnings, perceptions of NVPs, and intentions to use NVPs.

Methods: Cross-sectional analysis of 12,619 adult NVP users, cigarette smokers, concurrent users of both cigarettes and NVPs, and quitters who participated in the 2018 International Tobacco Control (ITC) Project Four Country Smoking and Vaping Survey (England, Australia, Canada, US). Logistic regression analyses examined associations between noticing warnings in the past 30 days and perceptions of nicotine harm, NVP harm relative to cigarettes, and NVP addictiveness relative to cigarettes. Associations were also explored between noticing warnings and intentions to use NVPs.

Results: Noticing warnings was higher among NVP users (18.8%) than non-users (2.1%). Noticing warnings was associated with perceiving nicotine to pose little or no harm to health among NVP users, but there was no association among non-users. There was little evidence of an association between noticing warnings and perceptions of NVP harms relative to smoking among NVP users and non-users. Noticing warnings was associated with perceiving NVPs as less addictive than cigarettes among non-users but not NVP users. Among exclusive smokers, noticing warnings was associated with intending to start using NVPs. Among NVP users, there was little evidence of an association between noticing warnings and intentions to continue using/stopping NVPs.

Conclusions: Noticing NVP warnings was not associated with increased NVP and nicotine harm perceptions or decreased intentions to use NVPs among adult smokers and vapers

Citation

Miller, C., Xu, S.S., Smith, D.M., Sutanto, E., Goniewicz, M.L., Quah, A.C.K., Fong, G.T. (2022). Assessing use of inhalable nicotine products within complex markets: The dilemma of heated tobacco products. Tobacco Control, [Published online, doi:10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2021-057081].

Abstract

The introduction of electronic inhalable products, such as nicotine vaping products (NVPs) and heated tobacco products (HTPs), has further diversified the nicotine market landscape. This poses unique challenges in measuring self-reported nicotine use behaviours, which have been the hallmark of tobacco surveillance systems. This paper raises concerns of potential measurement error for electronic inhalable product use in surveys due to similarities in product design between NVPs and HTPs, as well as changing trends in cannabis administration. We identify several strategies for addressing this issue (eg, including descriptive preambles in surveys that differentiate product classes from one another; incorporating survey questions that probe beyond an initial question regarding product use). In the absence of comprehensive validation studies, caution is warranted when interpreting survey results that rely on self-reported HTP use.

Citation

Felicione, N., Schneller, L., Goniewicz, M.L., Hyland, A., Cummings, K.M., Bansal-Travers, M., Fong, G.T., O’Connor, R.J. (2022). Oral nicotine product awareness and use among people who smoke and vape in the US. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 63(4), 611-618. doi: 10.1016/j.amepre.2022.04.019.

Abstract

Introduction: Tobacco-free oral nicotine products are an emerging class of noncombustible nicotine products. Oral nicotine product sales have increased since 2016, although little research has investigated consumer awareness, use, or correlates of oral nicotine product use. The purpose of this analysis was to assess the prevalence and correlates of oral nicotine product awareness and use.

Methods: This paper is a cross-sectional analysis of 2,507 U.S. participants from Wave 3 (February–June 2020) of the International Tobacco Control Four Country Smoking and Vaping Survey, a population-based survey of current and former cigarette smokers and nicotine vaping product users in the U.S. Oral nicotine product awareness and use prevalence were compared with those of heated tobacco products. Analyses conducted in late 2021 assessed the correlates of oral nicotine product awareness and use such as demographic characteristics, tobacco use (cigarettes, nicotine vaping products, smokeless tobacco), and tobacco quit attempts.

Results: Almost 1 in 5 respondents claimed to have heard of oral nicotine products, 3.0% reported ever use, and 0.9% were current users, all of which were lower than for heated tobacco products. Ever use of oral nicotine products was more common among younger adults (e.g., aged 18–24 years), males, and current users of smokeless tobacco. Oral nicotine product prevalence was higher among those who reported having made attempts to stop smoking or vaping.

Conclusions: Oral nicotine product use was low among current and former smokers and nicotine vaping product users. Oral nicotine product users were demographically similar to use among individuals who smoke/vape and also use smokeless tobacco. Future studies are needed to understand emerging oral nicotine products, particularly whether they are being used as product supplements (dual use), replacements (switching), or cessation aids (quitting).

Citation

Kyriakos, C.N., Fong, G.T., Perez, C., Szklo, A., Driezen, P., Quah, A.C.K., Figueiredo, V., Filippidis, F. (2022). Brazilian smokers are ready for the ban on flavour additives in tobacco to be implemented. Preventive Medicine, 160, 107074. doi: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2022.107074

Abstract

Brazil became the first country to approve a national policy to ban all flavour additives in all tobacco leaf products in 2012. However, as of February 2022, the policy remained to be implemented. Cross-sectional data come from the International Tobacco Control (ITC) Brazil Wave 3 Survey among adult smokers (N = 1216) in 2016–2017. The majority of smokers supported a ban on menthol (56.0%; 95%CI: 51.7–60.2%) and a ban on all additives (61.7%; 57.5–65.8%), with no significant differences across sociodemographic groups in adjusted logistic regression models. More than half of menthol smokers reported they would either quit or reduce the amount they smoked if menthol cigarettes were banned. Findings suggest that there is support for Brazil's ban on flavour additives, which is a determinant of successful policy implemented. Continued delays will postpone an important measure with demonstrated public health gains.

Citation

Usidame, O., Meng, G., Thrasher, J.F., Thompson, M.E., Fong, G.T., Fleischer, N.L. (2022). The differential impact of the 2000 Canadian graphic warning label policy on smoking prevalence by sex and education: A difference-in-difference-in-difference model. Nicotine and Tobacco Research, 24(11), 1732-1740. doi: 10.1093/ntr/ntac122.

Abstract

Introduction: Using a quasi-experimental design, we compared the impact of the 2000 Canadian introduction of graphic warning labels (GWLs) on differences in smoking prevalence by sex and education, to the United States (US), where no GWLs were introduced.

Methods: We pooled 1999-2004 data from the Canadian Tobacco Use Monitoring Survey (CTUMS) and the US Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). We used a difference-in-difference (DD) model to assess the impact of Canadian policy introduction on smoking prevalence, and a difference-indifference-in-difference (DDD) model to examine differences in the policy impact by sex and education, comparing Canada (the treatment group) with the US (the control group).

Results: From 1999 to 2004, smoking prevalence decreased from 23.7% to 18.6% in Canada, and from 21.7% to 20.0% in the US. Results from the DD regression models showed that Canadian respondents reported lower odds of being a current smoker compared to the US respondents following the 2000 introduction of GWLs (OR= 0.84, 95 % CI 0.74-0.94). The DDD model showed that the impact of the Canadian GWLs vs. the US did not differ by sex or education.

Conclusions: The 2000 Canadian GWL policy reduced smoking prevalence overall, with similar reductions for males and females and across education levels. The impact of the Canadian GWLs in reducing smoking prevalence did not reduce differences by sex or education. Although beneficial for all smokers, GWLs may not serve to decrease existing disparities, especially those by socioeconomic status.

Implications: Existing evidence shows that GWL implementation is associated with reductions in smoking prevalence. But there is limited evidence from past evaluation studies on whether the impact of GWLs on smoking prevalence differs by sociodemographic subgroup. Our findings confirm existing studies that the 2000 implementation of GWLs in Canada was significantly associated with an overall reduction in smoking prevalence in Canada compared to the US. However, our study improves existing evidence by showing that the impact of the Canadian GWLs on smoking prevalence did not differ by sex or education, and thus did not reduce existing smoking disparities by educational levels.

Citation

East, K.A., Reid, J.L., Burkhalter, R., Kock, L., Hyland, A., Fong, G.T., & Hammond, D. (2022). Evaluating the impact of the menthol cigarette ban in England by comparing menthol cigarette smoking among youth in England, Canada, and the US from 2018-2020. JAMA Network Open, 5(5), e2210029. doi: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.10029.

Abstract

Importance: Menthol cigarettes were prohibited in England in May 2020 and nationally in Canada in October 2017 but remain permitted in the US. Evidence on the outcomes of menthol cigarette bans among youth outside of Canada, and the characteristics of youth smokers, is lacking.

Objectives: To evaluate the outcomes of menthol cigarette bans on youth menthol cigarette smoking and to characterize youth menthol cigarette smokers in terms of demographics and cigarette consumption and dependence.

Design, Setting, and Participants: This survey study uses data from online repeat cross-sectional International Tobacco Control Youth Tobacco and Vaping Surveys conducted in 2018, 2019, February 2020, and August 2020. Participants included past 30-day smokers aged 16 to 19 years. Data analysis was performed from March 2021 to January 2022.

Main Outcomes and Measures: Usually smoke a brand of cigarettes that was menthol, including capsule.

Exposures: Menthol cigarette ban, comparing 3 countries over time: Canada, where a ban already existed, England, where a ban was implemented during the study, and the US, where no national ban was present. Age, sex, race, and consumption and dependence were also examined by menthol smoking in each country, and in England before vs after the ban.

Results: The analytical sample comprised 7067 participants aged 16 to 19 years, of whom 4129 were female and 5019 were White. In England, the weighted percentage of youth smokers who reported smoking a menthol or capsule cigarette brand was stable in the 3 survey waves before the menthol ban (2018 to February 2020, 9.4% vs 12.1%; adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.03; 95% CI, 0.99-1.06; P = .15) but decreased to 3.0% after the ban (February 2020 vs August 2020, AOR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.04-1.10; P < .001). The decrease between February and August 2020 in England was similar across all demographic groups but was greater among youth who perceived themselves as addicted to cigarettes (AOR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.41-0.97; P = .04). In the 2 comparison countries, menthol or capsule smoking was stable across all waves (2018 to August 2020: US, 33.6%-36.9%; Canada, 3.1%-2.3%) and was more prevalent in the US than in England (AOR, 5.58; 95% CI, 4.63-6.72; P >< .001). Menthol or capsule smoking was also more prevalent among smokers in England who were female vs male (10.9% vs 7.2%; AOR, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.01-1.06; P = .002); among smokers in the US who identified as Black vs White (60.6% vs 31.9%; AOR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.23-1.44; P >< .001) or who were frequent smokers (AOR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.01-1.13; P = .03), smoked more cigarettes per day (2-5 vs 1, AOR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.02-1.15; P = .006; >5 vs 1, AOR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.03-1.18; P = .007), or had urges to smoke every or most days (AOR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.02-1.14; P = .006); and among smokers in Canada who perceived themselves as addicted to cigarettes (AOR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.00-1.03; P = .01).

Conclusions and Relevance: In this survey study, the proportion of youth smokers who smoke menthol (including capsule) cigarettes decreased substantially after the menthol ban in England. This association was consistent across all demographic groups. Perceived addiction among menthol smokers was also lower where menthol cigarettes were banned.

Citation

Gorniak, B., Yong, H.H., Borland, R., Cummings, K.M., Thrasher, J.F., McNeill, A., Hyland, A., Fong, G.T. (2021). Do post-quitting experiences predict smoking relapse among former smokers in Australia and the United Kingdom? Findings from the International Tobacco Control Surveys. Drug and Alcohol Review, 41(4), 883-889.

Abstract

Introduction: Many smokers attempt to stop smoking every year, but the vast majority of quit attempts fail. This study examined prospectively the association between post-quitting experiences and smoking relapse among ex-smokers in Australia and the United Kingdom.

Methods: Data came from 584 adult ex-smokers from Australia and the United Kingdom who participated in Wave 9 of the International Tobacco Control Four Country Survey and successfully followed up a year later (Wave 10). Binary logistic regression was used to examine whether baseline post-quitting experiences predicted relapse back to smoking at follow-up.

Results: Ex-smokers who perceived their stress coping ability had gotten worse since quitting were more likely to relapse back to smoking compared to their counterparts who reported no change (odds ratio = 5.77, 95% confidence interval = 1.64, 20.31, P < 0.01). Ex-smokers who reported their homes had become fresher and cleaner post quitting were less likely to relapse compared to those who did not notice any change (odds ratio = 0.34, 95% confidence interval = 0.13, 0.93, P < 0.05). Perceived changes in life enjoyment, negative affect control, social confidence, work performance, leisure time and financial situation did not independently predict relapse. No country differences were found.

Discussion and conclusions: The study showed that ex-smokers' relapse risk was elevated if they perceived any negative impact of quitting on their stress coping whereas relapse risk was reduced if they perceived any positive impact of quitting on the home (e.g. fresher and cleaner). Helping ex-smokers to develop alternative stress coping strategies and highlighting the positive impacts of quitting smoking on the homes may help protect against smoking relapse.

Citation

Hao, P., Xu, S.S., Sung, H.Y., Yao, T., Jiang, Y., Quah, A.C.K., Fong, G.T. (2022). Local brand smoking among adult smokers in China: Findings from the Wave 5 International Tobacco Control China Survey. China CDC Weekly, 4(21), 452-459.

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess the percentage of local brand (LB) smoking among adult smokers in a diversity of cities in China and to identify factors associated with LB smoking including demographic characteristics and patterns of smoking such as cigarettes per day. This project analyzed data from the Wave 5 International Tobacco Control (ITC) China Survey that was conducted between November 2013 and July 2015. The ITC China Survey is a longitudinal cohort survey of smoking behavior and knowledge, beliefs, opinions, and attitudes about cigarette smoking and tobacco use among adults aged 18 and older in China. The Wave 5 Survey was conducted in 10 locations, including urban residents in 5 large cities (Beijing, Guangzhou, Kunming, Shanghai, and Shenyang) and residents in 5 rural areas (Changzhi, Huzhou, Tongren, Yichun, and Xining). The 10 locations were selected based on size, geographical representations, and levels of economic development.

Citation

Fong, G.T., Chung-Hall, J., Meng, G., Craig, L., Thompson, M.E., Quah, A.C.K., Cummings, K.M., Hyland, A., O’Connor, R.J., Levy, D., Delnevo, C.D., Ganz, O., Eissenberg, T., Soule, E.K., Schwartz, R., Cohen, J.E., Chaiton, M.O. (2022). The impact of Canada’s menthol cigarette ban on quitting among menthol smokers: Pooled analysis of pre-post evaluation from the ITC Project and the Ontario Menthol Ban Study and projections of impact in the United States. Tobacco Control, [Published online April 28, doi: 10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2021-057227].

Abstract

Introduction: Between 2015 and 2018, Canada banned menthol cigarettes. This study pooled data from two pre–post cohort studies (the Ontario Menthol Ban Study, and the International Tobacco Control Policy Evaluation (ITC) Canada Survey, conducted in seven provinces) to derive more precise estimates of the impact of Canada’s menthol ban on quitting and to apply these estimates to project the impact of a menthol ban in the USA.

Methods: Weighted multivariable logistic analyses compared post-ban quit success of menthol smokers with non-menthol smokers (for daily smokers and for all (daily + non-daily) smokers), controlling for sex, age, ethnicity, education, baseline smoking status, baseline cigarettes per day and study regions. Projections to the USA were created by multiplying the effect size of the Canadian menthol ban on quitting (percentage of increased quitting among menthol smokers) by the number of menthol smokers overall and among African Americans, from the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.

Results: After the menthol cigarette ban, menthol smokers were more likely than non-menthol smokers to have quit smoking among daily smokers (difference=8.0%; 95% CI: 2.4% to 13.7%,p=0.005) and all (daily+non-daily) smokers (difference=7.3%; 95% CI: 2.1% to 12.5%,p=0.006). The projected number of smokers who would quit after a US menthol ban would be 789 724 daily smokers (including 199 732 African Americans) and 1 337 988 daily+non-daily smokers (including 381 272 African Americans).

Conclusions: This pooled analysis of Canada’s menthol cigarette ban provides the foundation for estimating the impact of menthol bans in the USA and other countries. Projections suggest that a US menthol cigarette ban would have a substantial impact on increasing quitting.

Press:

April 28, 2022 | University of Waterloo | More than a million smokers likely to quit after U.S. bans menthol cigarettes

April 28, 2022 | Washington Post | In a milestone, FDA proposes ban on menthol cigarettes, flavored cigars

April 28, 2022 | Wall Street Journal | FDA Advances Ban on Menthol Cigarettes

April 28, 2022 | The New York Times | F.D.A. Moves to Ban Sales of Menthol Cigarettes

April 28, 2022 | The Hill | More than a million smokers may quit if US bans menthol cigarettes, study finds

April 28, 2022 | NBC Nightly News | FDA moves to ban sale of menthol cigarettes

Citation

Kaai, S.C., Fong, G.T., Ong’ang’o, J.R., Goma, F., Meng, G., Craig, L.V., Ikamari, L., Quah, A.C.K., Elton-Marshall, T. (2022). Prevalence, perceptions, and factors associated with menthol cigarette smoking: Findings from the ITC Kenya and Zambia Surveys. Tobacco Control, [Published online April 22, doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2021-057100].

Abstract

Background: Menthol masks the harshness of cigarette smoke, promotes youth smoking and encourages health-concerned smokers who incorrectly believe that menthols are less harmful to smoke menthols. This study of smokers in Kenya and Zambia is the first study in Africa to examine menthol use, smokers’ beliefs about its harmfulness and the factors associated with menthols.

Methods: Data were from the International Tobacco Control (ITC) Kenya Wave 2 (2018) and Zambia Wave 2 Survey (2014), involving nationally representative samples of smokers. This study focuses on 1246 adult smokers (644 in Kenya, 602 in Zambia) who reported smoking a usual brand of cigarettes (menthol or non-menthol).

Results: Overall, menthol use was significantly higher among smokers in Zambia than in Kenya (48.0% vs 19.0%), females (45.6% vs 31.2% males), non-daily smokers (43.8% vs 30.0% daily) and those who exclusively smoked factory-made (FM) cigarettes (43.0% vs 15.2%). The erroneous belief that menthols are less harmful was more likely among smokers in Zambia than in Kenya (53.4% vs 29.3%) and among female smokers (38.5% vs 28.2%). In Kenya, menthol smoking was associated with being female (adjusted odds ratios (AOR)=3.07; p=0.03), worrying about future health (AOR=2.28; p=0.02) and disagreeing with the statement that smoking was calming (AOR=2.05; p=0.04). In Zambia, menthol use was associated with being female (AOR=3.91; p=0.002), completing primary school (AOR=2.14; p=0.03), being a non-daily smoker (AOR=2.29; p=0.03), exclusively using FM cigarettes (AOR=14.7; p<0.001), having a past quit attempt (AOR=1.54; p=0.02), believing that menthols are less harmful (AOR=3.80; p<0.001) and choosing menthols because they believed it was less harmful (AOR=3.52; p<0.001).

Conclusions: Menthols are highly prevalent among females in both countries. There is a need in African countries to combat the myth that menthols are less harmful and to ban menthol and other flavourings.

Citation

Driezen, P., Kasza, K.A., Gravely, S., Thompson, M.E., Fong, G.T., Cummings, K.M., Hyland, A. (2022). Was COVID-19 associated with increased cigarette purchasing, consumption, and smoking at home among US smokers in early 2020? Findings from the US arm of the International Tobacco Control (ITC) Four Country Smoking and Vaping Survey. Addictive Behaviours, 129, 107276.

Abstract

Evidence of the impact of COVID-19 and mandatory stay-at-home orders on cigarette smoking is mixed. In the United States, household tobacco purchases increased in early 2020, but it is unclear whether this was associated with increased smoking. Using individual-level, longitudinal data from a representative cohort of US smokers (n = 3046), this study tested whether (1) carton purchases of cigarettes increased in early 2020 relative to the same calendar period in 2018, (2) more smokers permitted smoking inside their homes, and (3) smokers increased the number of cigarettes they smoked per day. Weighted multivariable logistic regression tested whether trends in carton purchasing and smoke-free homes differed in 2020 compared to 2018 while weighted multivariable linear regression tested whether trends in cigarette consumption differed in 2020 compared to 2018. Overall, 24.0% of US smokers last purchased cigarettes by the carton in early 2018; this increased to 28.8% in early 2020 (p = 0.007). Average daily cigarette consumption and the percentage of smokers reporting that smoking was not allowed inside their homes did not differ between 2018 and 2020 (p = 0.92 and p = 0.054, respectively). Overall, these findings suggest that COVID-19 mitigation measures implemented in the spring of 2020 had limited impact on the smoking behavior of US adult smokers.

Citation

Le Grande, M., Borland, R., Yong, H.H., McNeill, A., Fong, G.T., Cummings, K.M. (2022). Age related interactions on key theoretical determinants of smoking cessation: Findings from the ITC Four Country Smoking and Vaping Surveys (2016-2020). Nicotine & Tobacco Research, 24(5), 679-689. doi: 10.1093/ntr/ntab230

Abstract

Background: This paper explores whether plans to quit, wanting to quit and quit efficacy add predictive value over measures of habit strength and dependence in making quit attempts and/or attaining smoking abstinence.

Aims and methods: We used three waves of the International Tobacco Control (ITC) Four Country Smoking and Vaping Survey conducted in 2016, 2018, and 2020. Baseline daily smokers (N=6710) who provided data for at least one wave-to-wave transition (W1 to W2, N=3511 or W2 to W3, N=3199) and providing outcome data at the next wave (follow-up) formed the analytic sample. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) logistic regression analyses examined predictors of quit attempts and abstinence at follow-up (1 and 6 months sustained abstinence).

Results: Wanting and planning to quit were significantly positively associated with making quit attempts, but negatively associated with smoking abstinence. A significant interaction between the Heaviness of Smoking Index and age warranted an age-stratified analysis for both abstinence outcomes. Lower HSI predicted abstinence in only the younger smokers Motivation and plans to quit were positively associated with abstinence in younger smokers, but surprisingly were negatively associated with abstinence in older smokers. Quit efficacy was associated with abstinence in the older, but not the younger smokers.

Conclusions: Models of smoking abstinence are significantly improved by including motivational predictors of smoking. Age was an important moderator of the association between abstinence for both dependence and motivational variables.

Implications: The findings from this large cohort study indicate there are age-related differences in predictors of smoking abstinence but not quit attempts. These associations may reflect differential experiences of older and younger cohorts of smokers, which may have implications for interventions to motivate and assist smokers in quitting.

Citation

East, K.A., Reid, J., Burkhalter, R., Wackowski, O.A., Thrasher, J.F., Tattan-Birch, H., Boudreau, C., Bansal-Travers, M., Liber, A.C., McNeill, A., Hammond, D. (2022). Exposure to negative news stories about vaping, and harm perceptions of vaping, among youth in England, Canada, and the United States before and after the outbreak of E-cigarette or Vaping-Associated Lung Injury (EVALI). Nicotine and Tobacco Research, 24(9), 1386-1395. doi: https://doi.org/10.1093/ntr/ntac088.

Abstract

Introduction: Little is known about the international impact of ‘EVALI’ on youth perceptions of vaping harms.

Methods: Repeat cross-sectional online surveys of youth aged 16-19 in England, Canada, and the US before (2017, 2018), during (2019Aug/Sept), and after (2020Feb/Mar, 2020Aug) the ‘EVALI’ outbreak (N=63,380). Logistic regressions assessed trends, country differences, and associations between exposure to negative news stories about vaping and vaping harm perceptions.

Results: Exposure to negative news stories increased between 2017 and Feb/Mar 2020 in England (12.6% to 34.2%), Canada (16.7% to 56.9%), and the US (18.0% to 64.6%), accelerating during (2019) and immediately after (Feb/Mar 2020) the outbreak (p<.001) before returning to 2019 levels by Aug 2020. Similarly, accurate perception that vaping is less harmful than smoking declined between 2017 and Feb/Mar 2020 in England (77.3% to 62.2%), Canada (66.3% to 43.3%), and the US (61.3% to 34.0%), again accelerating during and immediately after the outbreak (p<.001). Perception that vaping takes less than a year to harm users’ health and worry that vaping will damage health also doubled over this period (p≤.001). Time trends were most pronounced in the US. Exposure to negative news stories predicted perception that vaping takes less than a year to harm health (AOR=1.55, 1.48-1.61) and worry that vaping will damage health (AOR=1.32, 1.18-1.48).

Conclusions: Between 2017 and February/March 2020, youth exposure to negative news stories, and perceptions of vaping harms, increased, and increases were exacerbated during and immediately after ‘EVALI’. Effects were seen in all countries but were most pronounced in the US.

Implications: This is the first study to examine changes in exposure to news stories about vaping, and perceptions of vaping harms, among youth in England, Canada, and the US before, during, and after ‘EVALI’. Between 2017 and February/March 2020, youth exposure to negative news stories, and perceptions of vaping harms, increased, and increases were exacerbated during and immediately after ‘EVALI’. By August 2020, exposure to negative news stories returned to 2019 levels, while perceptions of harm were sustained. Exposure to negative news stories also predicted two of three harm perceptions measures. Overall, findings suggest ‘EVALI’ may have exacerbated youth’s perceptions of vaping harms internationally.

Citation

Geboers, C., Shang, C., Nagelhout, G.E., de Vries, H., van den Putte, B., Fong, G.T., Candel, M., Willemsen, M.C. (2021). Demand for factory-made cigarettes and roll-your-own tobacco and differences between age and socioeconomic groups: Findings from the International Tobacco Control (ITC) Netherlands Survey. Nicotine & Tobacco Research, 24(4), 529-535.

Abstract

Introduction: Macroeconomic studies have shown that young individuals who smoke, and have a low socioeconomic status respond more strongly to price increases. Most of this evidence stems from research on factory-made (FM) cigarettes. With the rising popularity of roll-your-own (RYO) tobacco, there is a need for studies on cigarette demand that distinguish between both.

Aims and Methods: This study examined whether individual demand differed for FM and RYO tobacco, and across age, and socioeconomic (income and education) groups. Purchase tasks for FM and RYO cigarettes were included in the 2020 International Tobacco Control (ITC) Netherlands Survey. Adults who smoke daily (n = 1620) stated how many cigarettes they would smoke in 24 hours across eight prices. Four demand indices were derived: intensity (consumption at zero costs), alpha (rate of change in elasticity), P max (turning point elasticity), and breakpoint (lowest price where consumption equals zero). The indices were tested for subgroup differences.

Results: Individuals who smoke RYO tobacco indicated higher intensity, and greater alpha than individuals who smoke FM cigarettes. Participants aged 25–39 had lower P max, and 18–24 year olds displayed higher breakpoints. Participants with low income displayed higher intensity, and lower P max than other income groups. No associations were found with education.

Conclusions: Individuals who smoke RYO tobacco indicated higher price sensitivity than those smoking FM cigarettes, supporting the need to harmonize tobacco taxation. Taxation may be especially beneficial to reducing consumption among individuals with a low income or smoke RYO tobacco. Substantially higher prices are needed in the Netherlands to achieve the desired results.

Implications: Individuals who smoke daily were willing to pay substantially higher prices than the current market prices, indicating the room and need for much higher taxation levels. Demand for RYO tobacco was more sensitive to price changes than demand for FM cigarettes. Taxation should be raised at equivalent rates for FM and RYO cigarettes. Taxation appears to be especially effective in reducing consumption among people who smoke RYO tobacco and low-income individuals. It remains important to combine increased taxation with other tobacco control measures.

Citation

Driezen, P., Amer Nordin, A.M., Mohd Hairi, F., Yee, A., Ahmad Tajuddin, N.A., Hasan, S.I., Danaee, M., Kamaludin, I.S., Kaai, S.C., Yan, M., Grey, M., Quah, A.C.K., Thompson, M.E., Fong, G.T. (2022). E-cigarette prevalence among Malaysian adults and types and flavours of e-cigarette products used by cigarette smokers who vape: Finding from the 2020 ITC Malaysia Survey. Tobacco Induced Diseases, 20(March), 32. doi: https://doi.org/10.18332/tid/146363

Abstract

Introduction: E-cigarettes (ECs) have become increasingly common in many countries, including Malaysia. The prevalence of EC use increased in Malaysia from 0.8% in 2011 to 4.9% in 2019. Three quarters of Malaysian EC users also smoke combustible cigarettes, and the prevalence of EC use among Malaysian smokers in 2014 was consistent with the prevalence of use among smokers from Canada and the US in 2016. The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of EC use among Malaysian adults aged ≥18 years in 2020 and the types of EC products and flavors used by cigarette smokers who also used ECs at least monthly.

Methods: Data came from 1253 adults aged ≥18 years who participated in the 2020 International Tobacco Control Malaysia Wave 1 Survey. Weighted descriptive statistics were used to estimate the prevalence of adults who reported ever using ECs and the prevalence who used ECs either monthly, weekly, or daily. The types of EC products and flavors used were compared by frequency of EC use among current smokers who used ECs at least monthly (n=459).

Results: Overall, 5.4% (95% CI: 3.7–7.5) of Malaysian adults reported using ECs on a daily basis in 2020. Among current cigarette smokers who used ECs daily, 81.0% (95% CI: 72.5–87.7) used nicotine in their ECs, 46.2% (95% CI: 37.8–54.7) used pre-filled ECs, and 60.4% (95% CI: 51.9–68.6) reported being somewhat/very addicted to ECs. The most common EC flavors were fruit, coffee, and menthol/ mint.

Conclusions: Continued surveillance of EC use is necessary to monitor EC use in non-tobacco using populations while longitudinal research is needed to determine the extent to which ECs are, or are not, related to quitting smoking.

Citation

Mohd Hairi, F., Goh, K.T., Driezen, P., Amer Nordin, A.S., Yee, A., Tajuddin, N.A.A., Hasan, S.I., Danaee, M., Kamaluddin, I.S., Kaai, S.C., Yan, M., Grey, M., Quah, A.C.K., Thompson, M.E., Fong, G.T. (2022). Reasons for using e-cigarettes and support for e-cigarette regulations, Findings from the 2020 ITC Malaysia Survey. Methods of the 2020 (Wave 1) International Tobacco Control (ITC) Malaysia Project. Tobacco Induced Diseases, 20(March), 33. doi: https://doi.org/10.18332/tid/146364

Abstract

Introduction: Malaysia has the largest e-cigarette (EC) market in Southeast Asia, and it has been estimated that 17% of adult daily cigarette smokers also used ECs on a daily basis in 2020. However, few studies have examined the reasons people use ECs in Malaysia. This cross-sectional study of adult cigarette smokers from Malaysia assessed reasons for EC use and their support for key proposed EC regulations.

Material and Methods: Data are from the 2020 International Tobacco Control (ITC) Malaysia Wave 1 Survey of adult (aged ≥18 years) smokers who reported that they used ECs at least monthly (N=459 out of 1047 smokers). Weighted analyses were conducted on EC users’ reasons for using ECs and their support for various EC regulations.

Results: Smokers who used ECs at least monthly were more likely to be male, aged 25–39 years, of Malay ethnicity, married, more highly educated, and living in Peninsular Malaysia. Smokers who used ECs daily reported using ECs to reduce the number of cigarettes smoked (91.3%), pleasant taste (90.1%), to quit smoking (87.9%), and enjoyment (87.5%). Smokers who used ECs less than daily reported using ECs for their pleasant taste (weekly 89.4%, monthly 87.5%), curiosity (weekly 79.5%, monthly 88.8%), being offered EC by someone (weekly 76.3%, monthly 81.6%), and to reduce the number of cigarettes smoked (weekly 76.2%, monthly 77.6%). Smokers who also used ECs were most likely to support EC regulations requiring a minimum purchasing age (88.3%) and limiting nicotine concentration (79.6%), and least likely to support regulations banning EC fruit and candy flavors (27.1%).

Conclusions: The most prevalent reasons for using ECs in Malaysia are comparable to those of other ITC countries, including Canada, US, England, and Australia. An understanding of use patterns of ECs, especially their interaction with cigarettes, are important in developing evidence-based regulations in Malaysia.

Citation

Amer Nordin, A.S., Mohamad, A.S., Quah, A.C.K., Mohd Hairi, F., Yee, A.H.A., Ahmad Tajuddin, N.A., Hasan, S.I.B., Danaee, M., Kaai, S.C., Grey, M., Driezen, P., Fong, G.T., Thompson, M.E. (2022). Methods of the 2020 (Wave 1) International Tobacco Control (ITC) Malaysia Project. Tobacco Induced Diseases, 20(March), 31. doi: 10.18332/tid/146568

Abstract

The ITC Malaysia Project is part of the 31-country ITC Project, of which the central objective is to evaluate the impact of tobacco control policies of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). This article describes the methods used in the 2020 International Tobacco Control (ITC) Malaysia (MYS1) Survey. Adult smokers and non-smokers aged ≥18 years in Malaysia were recruited by a commercial survey firm from its online panel. Survey weights, accounting for smoking status, sex, age, education, and region of residence, were calibrated to the Malaysian 2019 National Health and Morbidity Survey. The survey questions were identical or functionally similar to those used in other ITC countries. Questions included demographic measures, patterns of use, quit history, intentions to quit, risk perceptions, beliefs and attitudes about cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and heated tobacco products. Questions also assessed measures assessing the impact of tobacco demand-reduction domains of the FCTC: price/tax (Article 6), smoke-free laws (Article 8), health warnings (Article 11), education, communication and public awareness (Article 12), advertising, promotion, and sponsorship restrictions (Article 13), and support for cessation (Article 14). The total sample size was 1253 (1047 cigarette smokers and 206 non-smokers). Response rate was 11.3%, but importantly, the cooperation rate was 95.3%. The 2020 ITC MYS1 Survey findings will provide evidence on current tobacco control policies and evidence needed by Malaysian government regulatory agencies to develop new or strengthen existing tobacco control efforts that could help achieve Malaysia’s endgame, i.e. a tobacco-free nation by 2040.

Citation

Quah, A.C.K., Lee, S., Seo, H.G., Cho, S., Lim, S., Kim, Y., Xu, S.S., Grey, M., Yan, M., Boudreau, C., Thompson, M.E., Driezen, P., Fong, G.T. (2022). Methods of the 2020 (Wave 1) International Tobacco Control (ITC) Korea Survey. Tobacco Prevention & Cessation, 8(March), 13. doi: https://doi.org/10.18332/tpc/146685

Abstract

This article presents methods used in the 2020 International TC Korea Wave 1 (KRA1) Survey. To date, three cohorts of Korean respondents have participated in the larger ITC Korea Project (cohort 1: 2005–2014, cohort 2: 2016, and cohort 3: 2020–present). The overall objectives of the ITC KRA1 Survey were to examine the use of cigarettes, heated tobacco products (HTPs), e-cigarettes (ECs); whether HTPs might help smokers quit; and the effectiveness of tobacco control policies, such as large graphic warnings, high cigarette taxes, and smoking bans in public places. The KRA1 Survey measures were identical or functionally similar to those of the ITC Japan Survey and, to a lesser extent, those of other ITC countries. Key measures assessed sociodemographic characteristics of respondents; the use of combustible cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and heated tobacco products; and measures assessing policies of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, including price and tax (Article 6), smoke-free laws (Article 8), health warnings (Article 11), education, communication and public awareness (Article 12), advertising, promotion, and sponsorship restrictions (Article 13), and support for cessation (Article 14). Adult tobacco and/or nicotine users aged ≥19 years in South Korea were recruited by a commercial survey firm from its online panel. Overall, 4794 respondents completed the KRA1 Survey. The cooperation rate was 97.4% and the response rate was 15.2%. The cohort design permits assessment of transitions in products used among users in South Korea and evaluations of the impact of policies on tobacco and/or nicotine products used and transitions in use.

Citation

Lyu, J., Sung, H.-Y., Yao, T., Quah, A.C.K., Jiang, Y., Fong, G.T., Max, W. (2022). Receiving and giving electronic cigarettes as gifts in China: Findings from the International Tobacco Control China Survey. Preventive Medicine Reports, 27, 101763. doi: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2022.101763

Abstract

Cigarette gifting is pervasive in China. As the Chinese are increasingly aware of harm from smoking cigarettes, e-cigarettes, often promoted as less harmful alternatives to cigarettes, may be viewed as appropriate gifts. This study is the first using population-based survey data to examine receiving and giving e-cigarettes as gifts in China. We analyzed 9,274 adults from Wave 5 of the International Tobacco Control China Survey, which was completed in July 2015. We found that the prevalence of receiving e-cigarettes as gifts was 1.3% among all respondents and 5.3% among urban smokers; the prevalence of giving e-cigarettes as gifts was 0.5% among all respondents and 1.2% among urban smokers. These prevalence estimates were very low among nonsmokers and rural respondents. Further analysis on urban smokers (N = 3,312) found that those aged 40-54 and 55+, those with high education levels, heavy smokers, and those who perceived e-cigarettes as equally/more harmful than cigarettes were more likely to receive e-cigarette gifts; and those who ever used e-cigarettes were significantly more likely to both receive and give e-cigarette gifts. Urban smokers with positive attitude about cigarette gifting were also more likely to give e-cigarette gifts to others, but those aged 55+ were less likely to gift e-cigarettes. Findings of this study indicate that the Chinese may perceive e-cigarettes as appropriate gifts for smokers, especially heavy smokers. Precautions should be taken to prevent e-cigarettes from becoming a gift choice for nonsmokers. Health campaigns designed to combat the social acceptance of cigarette gifting may also help reduce e-cigarette gifting.

Citation

Hasan, S.I., Kaai, S.C., Amer Nordin, A.S., Mohd Hairi, F., Danaee, M., Yee, A., Ahmad Tajuddin, N.A., Kamaludin, I.S., Grey, M., Yan, M., Driezen, P., Thompson, M.E., Quah, A.C.K., Fong, G.T. (2022). Who are more likely to have quit intentions among Malaysian adult smokers: Findings from the 2020 ITC Malaysia Survey. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(5), 3035. doi: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19053035

Abstract

Increasing quitting among smokers is essential to reduce the population burden of smoking-related diseases. Smokers’ intentions to quit smoking are among the strongest predictors of future quit attempts. It is therefore important to understand factors associated with intentions to quit, and this is particularly important in low- and middle-income countries, where there have been few studies on quit intentions. The present study was conducted to identify factors associated with quit intentions among smokers in Malaysia. Data came from the 2020 International Tobacco Control (ITC) Malaysia Survey, a self-administered online survey of 1047 adult (18+) Malaysian smokers. Smokers who reported that they planned to quit smoking in the next month, within the next six months, or sometime beyond six months were classified as having intentions to quit smoking. Factors associated with quit intentions were examined by using multivariable logistic regression. Most smokers (85.2%) intended to quit smoking. Smokers were more likely to have quit intentions if they were of Malay ethnicity vs. other ethnicities (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.82, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.03–3.20), of moderate (AOR = 2.11, 95% CI = 1.12–3.99) or high level of education vs. low level of education (AOR = 1.97, 95% CI = 1.04–3.75), if they had ever tried to quit smoking vs. no quit attempt (AOR = 8.81, 95% CI = 5.09–15.27), if they received advice to quit from a healthcare provider vs. not receiving any quit advice (AOR = 3.78, 95% CI = 1.62–8.83), and if they reported worrying about future health because of smoking (AOR = 3.11, 95% CI = 1.35–7.15 (a little worried/moderately worried vs. not worried); AOR = 7.35, 95% CI = 2.47–21.83 (very worried vs. not worried)). The factors associated with intentions to quit smoking among Malaysian smokers were consistent with those identified in other countries. A better understanding of the factors influencing intentions to quit can strengthen existing cessation programs and guide the development of more effective smoking-cessation programs in Malaysia.

Citation

Cruz-Jiménez, L., Barrientos-Gutiérrez, I., Zavala-Arciniega, L., Arillo-Santillan, E., Gallegos-Carrillo, K., Rodrigues-Bolanos, R., Gravley, S., Thrasher, J.F. (2022). Heated tobacco product use, its correlates, and reasons for use among Mexican smokers. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 232(2022), 1092983. Doi: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109283

Abstract

Background: Little is known about the use of novel heated tobacco products (HTPs) in low- and middle-income countries. We examined among smokers in Mexico the prevalence and correlates of HTP use, as well as reasons for using HTPs.

Methods: We analyzed data from five surveys (November 2019-March 2021) of an open cohort of adult smokers (n = 6500), including an oversample of those who also use e-cigarettes. Mixed-effects multinomial logistic models were used to estimate associations between study variables and current HTP use or prior HTP trial relative to never trying HTPs.

Results: The weighted prevalence of current HTP use was 1.1%. Independent correlates of current HTP use included smoking frequency, intention to quit, e-cigarette use, having partners/family-members who use e- cigarettes, friends who use HTPs, and exposure to HTP information inside/outside tobacco shops. Having partners/family members who smoke and not knowing about the harm of HTPs relative to cigarettes were associated with lower likelihood of current HTP use. Having tried HTPs was more likely among light daily smokers, those with family who use HTPs and exposure to HTP information outside shops and on newspapers/magazines. Among current users, the top reasons for using HTPs were greater social acceptability (50.6%) and lower perceived harm (34.9%) relative to cigarettes.

Conclusions: Uptake of HTPs appears relatively low among Mexican smokers, and correlates of use are similar to those for e-cigarette use. Further research is needed to determine if HTPs use promotes or impedes smoking cessation, given current HTP users are also likely to use various nicotine products.

Citation

Gravely, S., Smith, D.M., Liber, A.C., Cummings, K.M., East, K., Hammond, D., Hyland, A., O’Connor, R.J., Kasza, K.A., Quah, A.C.K., Loewen, R., Martin, N., Meng, G., Ouimet, J., Thompson, M.E., Boudreau, C., McNeill, A., Sweanor, D., Fong, G.T. (2022). Responses to potential nicotine vaping product flavor restrictions among regular vapers using non-tobacco flavors: Findings from the 2020 ITC Smoking and Vaping Survey in Canada, England and the United States. Addictive Behaviors, 125, 107152.

Abstract

Introduction: Some jurisdictions have implemented nicotine vaping product (NVP) flavor restrictions because of concerns about rising adolescent use. However, little is known how these restrictions may impact adult vapers. This study describes the level of support and predictive behavioral responses to a hypothetical NVP ban on non-tobacco flavors among regular adult vapers who only use flavors that would be banned.

Methods: Data came from 851 regular vapers (all current or ex-smokers) participating in the 2020 ITC Four Country Smoking and Vaping Survey in Canada, England, and the United States (US). A random sample of respondents in each country received and completed the questions about flavor bans: (1) do you support or oppose a ban on all non-tobacco flavors; and (2) what would you do if all flavors were banned, with the exception of tobacco in the US, and tobacco and menthol in Canada and England. Those who used tobacco-flavored or unflavored NVPs were excluded from all analyses, and additionally, vapers of menthol flavor in Canada and England were excluded from Aim 2.

Results: Overall, 53.6% of vapers were strongly opposed to flavor bans, 28.2% were opposed, 9.3% were in support, 3.6% were in strong support, and 5.2% did not know. Predicted behavioral responses were: 28.8% would continue vaping an available flavor, 28.3% would find a way to get their banned flavor(s), 17.1% would stop vaping and smoke instead, 12.9% said that they would stop vaping and not smoke, and 12.9% do not know what they would do. Responses to a potential flavor ban largely varied by smoking and vaping status, and by the level of support of a flavor restriction policy.

Conclusions: At this time, it is not clear what net population-level consequences would occur if non-tobacco flavored NVPs were prohibited. While a majority of vapers in this study opposed this policy, and many vapers would not be willing to switch to available flavors, there was considerable variability in predicted behavioral responses.

Citation

Liao, Y., Tang, J., Quah, A.C.K., Fong, G.T., McNeill, A. (2022). Attitudes towards smoking and COVID19, and changes of smoking behaviors before and after the outbreak of COVID-19: A nationwide cross-sectional survey study in China. Tobacco Induced Diseases, 20, 18.

Abstract

Introduction: China has more than 300 million current smokers. There is a controversy over smokers’ risk of COVID-19 infection. Smoking is a risk factor for COVID-19 disease progression, and the outbreak of COVID-19 may change people’s smoking behaviors. This study assessed people’s attitudes towards ‘smoking and COVID-19’ and changes of smoking behaviors before and after the outbreak of COVID-19.

Material and Methods: A cross-sectional web survey of 11009 adults in China was conducted between 7 May and 3 August 2020. Attitudes towards ‘smoking and COVID-19’ were compared among non-smokers (n=8837), ex-smokers (n=399) and current smokers (n=1773), and changes in smoking behaviors before and after the outbreak of COVID-19 were assessed among current smokers.

Results: Fewer current smokers (26.2%) agreed with the statement that ‘Current smokers are more likely than ex-smokers or non-smokers to contract COVID-19’ compared with non-smokers (53%) or ex-smokers (41.4%); fewer current smokers (55.9%) agreed with the statement ‘If contracted, current smokers are more likely than ex-smokers or non-smokers to risk disease progression’ compared with nonsmokers (75.5%) or ex-smokers (68.7%). There were no changes in cigarettes smoked per day (mean ± SD: 13.3 ± 9.55 vs 13.4 ± 9.69, p=0.414), percentage of daily smokers (70.8% vs 71.1%, p=0.882) and percentage of smokers with motivation to quit (intend to quit within the next 6 months, 9.4% vs 10.9%, p=0.148) before and after the outbreak of COVID-19.

Conclusions: The survey found that fewer current smokers agreed that smoking is a risk-factor for COVID-19 compared with non-smokers or ex-smokers. Among current smokers, there were no changes in their cigarette consumption and motivation to quit before and after the outbreak of COVID-19. More efforts are needed to educate smokers about the health risks of smoking, as well as efforts to promote their motivation to quit.