Citation

Seo, H.G., Xu, S.S., Li, G., Gravely, S., Quah, A.C.K., Lee, S., Lim, S., Cho, S., Kim, Y., Lee, E.S., Choi, Y.J., Miller, C., Goniewicz, M.L., O’Connor, R.J., Fong, G.T. (2023). Reasons for initiation and regular use of heated tobacco products among current and former smokers in South Korea: Findings from the 2020 ITC Korea Survey. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 40(6), 49-63.

Abstract

The market growth of heated tobacco products (HTPs), such as IQOS, Ploom TECH, and glo, has increased dramatically in Japan since 2016. Little is known about the reasons why current and former smokers are using HTPs. The data for this cross-sectional study were from the 2018 (Wave 1) International Tobacco Control (ITC) Japan Survey, a national web-based survey of 4500 people, including 658 current HTP users, of whom 549 were concurrently smoking cigarettes and 109 were former smokers. The most common reasons for regularly using HTPs were: beliefs that HTP are less harmful than cigarettes to themselves (90.6%) or to others (86.7%), enjoyment (76.5%), and social acceptability (74.4%). About half of current smokers (55.1%) reported using HTPs because these products might help them quit smoking. However, a near-equal percentage (52.0%) of current smokers reported using HTPs to replace some of the cigarettes they smoked so that they did not have to give up smoking altogether. If smokers are using HTPs to complement rather than quit their smoking, then the harm reduction potential of HTPs suggested by the toxicity studies will be diminished.

Citation

Kaai, S.C., Sansone, G., Meng, G., Ong’ang’o, J., Goma, F., Ikamari, L., Quah, A.C.K., Fong, G. (2023). Quasi-experimental evaluation of Kenya’s pictorial health warnings versus Zambia’s single text-only warning: Findings from the International Tobacco Control (ITC) Project. Tobacco Control, 32(2), 139-145.

Abstract

Background: Population studies in mostly high-income countries have shown that pictorial health warnings (PHWs) are much more effective than text-only warnings. This is the first quasi-experimental evaluation of the introduction of PHWs in Africa, comparing the change from text-only to PHWs in Kenya to the unchanged text-only health warning in Zambia.

Methods: Data were from International Tobacco Control (ITC) Surveys in Kenya (n=1495), and Zambia (n=1628), cohort surveys of nationally representative samples of adult smokers in each country. The ITC Kenya Survey was conducted in 2012 and 2018 (2 years after the 2016 introduction of three PHWs). The ITC Zambia Survey was conducted in 2012 and 2014 with no change to the single text-only warning. Validated indicators of health warning effectiveness (HWIs) (salience: noticing, reading; cognitive reactions: thinking about health risks, thinking about quitting; and behavioural reactions: avoiding warnings; forgoing a cigarette because of the warnings), and a summary measure-the Labels Impact Index (LII)-measured changes in warning impact between the two countries.

Results: PHWs implemented in Kenya led to a significant increase in all HWIs and the LII, compared with the text-only warning in Zambia. The failure to implement PHWs in Zambia led to a substantial missed opportunity to increase warning effectiveness (eg, an estimated additional 168 392 smokers in Zambia would have noticed the warnings).

Conclusions: The introduction of PHWs in Kenya substantially increased the effectiveness of warnings. These results provide strong empirical support for 34 African countries that still have text-only warnings, of which 31 are Parties of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and are thus obligated to implement PHWs.

Citation

East, K.A., Miller, C., Hitchman, S.C., McNeill, A., Tompkins, C. (2023). 'It's not what you'd term normal smoking': a qualitative exploration of language used to describe heated tobacco product use and associated user identity. Addiction, 118(3), 533-538.

Abstract

Background and aims: Tobacco and nicotine marketplaces have diversified over the past decade, including with the introduction of heated tobacco products (HTPs), such as the brand IQOS. HTPs typically heat tobacco to generate an aerosol that is inhaled. HTP nomenclature is lacking, and how HTP users define and identify themselves remains understudied. Research in this area is important because language can construct identity, and identity can shape behaviour. This study aimed to explore users' language choice when describing IQOS use, and how language relates to user identity.

Methods: Qualitative interviews in London, United Kingdom, with 30 adult current and former IQOS users. Analyses were guided by Iterative Categorization.

Results: Overall, participants expressed confusion and a lack of suitable terminology for how to describe IQOS use. Verbs such as heating and IQOSing were rarely endorsed. Most often, participants reverted to smoking when describing IQOS use and commonly referred to HEETS (tobacco sticks) as cigarettes. Yet the lack of combustion, electronic device, cleaner experience and perceived reductions in health risks led some to frame IQOS as distinct from smoking. Vaping was generally considered inappropriate for describing IQOS use. Participants also manipulated language to suit their circumstances and manage their identity, whereas some IQOS users embraced the terms smoking and smoker, most were eager to distinguish between using IQOS and being labelled a smoker because of the associated negative connotations and to align with perceptions of IQOS use as a better, less harmful behaviour. Instead, when describing their identity, IQOS users more willingly identified as vapers, or ex-smokers, or created new identities (e.g. HEET user).

Conclusions: People who use or have used IQOS (a brand of heated tobacco product) are ambiguous about IQOS terminology. Participants in this study commonly referred to IQOS use as smoking for lack of a more suitable term, but also resisted being labelled as smokers, a choice that may influence smoking cessation. Clear terminology must be used in surveys and by healthcare professionals when asking about cigarette smoking and e-cigarette and heated tobacco product use.

Citation

Yong, H.H., Chow, R., East, K.A., Thrasher, J.F., Hitchman, S.C., Borland, R., Cummings, K.M., Fong, G.T. (2023). Do social norms for cigarette smoking and nicotine vaping product use predict trying nicotine vaping products and attempts to quit cigarette smoking amongst adult smokers? Findings from the 2016-2020 ITC Four Country Smoking and Vaping Surveys. Nicotine and Tobacco Research, 25(3), 505-515.

Abstract

Objectives: To examine whether perceived injunctive and descriptive social norms towards cigarette and nicotine vaping product (NVP) use predicted subsequent trying NVPs and attempts to quit cigarette smoking amongst current smokers, and whether associations varied across countries.

Method: Three waves of longitudinal cohort data from the International Tobacco Control Four Country Smoking and Vaping Survey collected between 2016 and 2020 from 2,290 adult smokers in Canada, Australia, England, and the United States who had never used NVPs at baseline (either Wave 1 or Wave 2) and followed up at the subsequent wave (Wave 2 or Wave 3, respectively) were analysed using Generalised Estimating Equations.

Results: Of the injunctive and descriptive norm measures for smoking and NVP use, NVP initiation was only independently predicted by the injunctive interpersonal norm for NVP use, with perceived approval of NVP use by important others predicting higher odds of trying NVPs (AOR=1.65, 95% CI=1.20-2.27). This predictive effect was independent of baseline quit intention with no country variations found. By contrast, making cigarette smoking quit attempts was independently predicted by both injunctive and descriptive interpersonal norms with perceived disapproval of smoking by important others (AOR=1.65, 95% CI=1.38-1.99) and close friends using NVPs (AOR=1.37, 95% CI=1.04-1.79), both associated with higher odds of smoking quit attempts.

Conclusions: Adult smokers who perceive NVP use as normative, either because such behaviour is socially approved or common within their close social networks, appear more inclined to try NVPs or make smoking quit attempts than smokers who do not.

Implications: What this study adds: Social norms can shape a person's behaviour and result in behaviour change. This study shows that initiation of NVP use behaviour among smokers can be reliably predicted by their perception of whether NVP use is acceptable to those important to them within their close social networks. Similarly, any attempts to stop cigarette smoking can be predicted by their perception of how acceptable cigarette smoking is among those who are important to them and whether any of their close friends use NVPs. Changing social norms towards cigarette smoking and NVP use could therefore be incorporated into smoking cessation interventions to help smokers to quit and/or switch to NVP use.

Citation

Chen, D.T.H., Nargis, N., Fong, G.T., Huq, S., Quah, A.C.K., Filippidis, F.T. (2023). Perceptions and reasons for quitting and transitioning between smoking and smokeless tobacco products: Findings from four waves of the ITC Bangladesh Survey. Tobacco Induced Diseases, 21(February), 25. doi:10.18332/tid/159137.

Abstract

Introduction: Transitions between different tobacco products are frequent among tobacco users in Bangladesh; however, the reasons leading to such transitions and why they quit are not well researched. The aim of the study is to examine perceptions and reasons reported by tobacco users in Bangladesh to transition to other products or quit.

Methods: Data from four waves (2009–2015) of the International Tobacco Control (ITC) Bangladesh Survey were used. Repeated data on perceptions and reasons for exclusive cigarette (n=520), bidi (n=130), and SLT users (n=308) to either start using other products or quit were analyzed with sampling weights. The percentages of responses across waves were used to calculate the pooled proportion data using a meta-analysis approach.

Results: Common reasoning for respondents switching to other tobacco products were influence of friends/family (73.8–86.0%), and curiosity (44.4–71.3%). The perceived calming effect of smoking cigarettes and bidis (43.2–56.9%), and the impression that bidis were less harmful (52.3%) and taste better (71.2%) were major reasons for exclusive SLT users to switch products. Health concerns (16.5– 62.7%) and disapproval from friends/family (29.8–56.4%) were generally the main reasons for quitting. For smoked tobacco users, doctor’s advice (41.6%), package warning labels (32.3%), and price (32.4%) seemed to be the major driving factors to quit.

Conclusions: Results highlight that the reasons for switching between tobacco products and quitting include social factors (e.g. friends/family) and (mis) perceptions regarding the products. Tobacco control policy could emphasize cessation support, increased price and education campaigns as key policies to reduce overall tobacco use in Bangladesh. Data from four waves (2009–2015) of the International Tobacco Control (ITC) Bangladesh Survey were used. Repeated data on perceptions and reasons for exclusive cigarette (n=520), bidi (n=130), and SLT users (n=308) to either start using other products or quit were analyzed with sampling weights. The percentages of responses across waves were used to calculate the pooled proportion data using a meta-analysis approach.

Citation

Lohner, V., McNeill, A., Schneider, S., Vollstädt-Klein, S., Andreas, M., Szafran, D., Grundinger, N., Demjén, T., Fernández, E., Przewoźniak, K., Tountas, Y., Trofor, A.C., Zatoński, W.A., Willemsen, M, Vardavas, C.I., Fong, G.T., Mons, U. (2023). Understanding perceived addiction to and addictiveness of electronic cigarettes among e-cigarette users – a cross-sectional analysis of the International Tobacco Control Smoking and Vaping (ITC 4CV) Europe Surveys. Addiction, [Published online, doi:10.1111/add.16162].

Abstract

Background and Aim: The addictive potential of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) remains to be fully understood. We identified patterns and correlates of perceived addiction to e-cigarettes and perceived addictiveness of e-cigarettes relative to tobacco cigarettes (relative addictiveness) in dual-users as well as exclusive e-cigarette users.

Design: Observational study using cross-sectional survey data from England from the International Tobacco Control Project (ITC) Four Country Smoking and Vaping (4CV) survey.

Setting: England (2016)

Participants: 832 current e-cigarette users who had been vaping for at least 4 months.

Measurements: Perceived addiction to e-cigarettes and relative addictiveness of e-cigarettes were examined. Sociodemographic factors were age, gender, and education; markers of addiction included urge to vape, time to first vape after waking, and nicotine strength used; vaping and smoking characteristics included frequency and duration of e-cigarette use, intention to quit, adjustable power or temperature, enjoyment, satisfaction relative to tobacco cigarettes, and tobacco cigarette smoking status.

Findings: 16.7% of participants reported feeling very addicted to e-cigarettes, while 42.3% considered e-cigarettes equally/more addictive than tobacco cigarettes. Those who felt very addicted had higher odds of regarding e-cigarettes as more addictive than tobacco cigarettes (odds ratio 3.4, 95%-confidence interval 2.3 – 5.1). All markers of addiction, daily use, and enjoyment were associated with higher perceived addiction, whereas time to first vape after waking, daily vaping, and perceiving vaping as less satisfying than smoking were associated with relative addictiveness.

Conclusions: Markers of addiction to e-cigarettes appear to correspond with perceived addiction to e-cigarettes, suggesting that self-reported perceived addiction might serve as an indicator of addiction. Prevalence both of markers of addiction and perceived addiction were comparatively low overall, suggesting a limited, but relevant addictive potential of e-cigarettes. Additionally, positive and negative reinforcement, reflected here by enjoyment and relative satisfaction, might play a role in e-cigarette addiction.

Citation

Levy, D.T., Gartner, C., Liber, A.C., Sánchez-Romero, L.M., Yuan, Z., Li, Y., Cummings, K.M., Borland, R. (2023). The Australia Smoking and Vaping Model: The potential impact of increasing access to nicotine vaping products. Nicotine and Tobacco Research, 25(3), 486-497.

Abstract

Background: We model the potential impact of relaxing current nicotine vaping product (NVP) restrictions on public health in Australia.

Methods: A Restricted NVP Scenario was first developed to project current smoking and vaping rates, where a US smoking model was calibrated to recent Australian trends. To model less restrictive NVP policies, a Permissive NVP Scenario applied rates of switching from smoking to vaping, initiation into NVP and cigarette use, and cessation from smoking and vaping based on US trends. The model measures vaping risk relative to the excess mortality rate of smoking. The public health impacts are measured as the difference between smoking- and vaping-attributable deaths (SVADs) and life years lost (LYLs) in the Restricted and Permissive NVP Scenarios with sensitivity analysis regarding the NVP excess risk and other factors.

Results: Assuming an NVP excess risk of 5% that of smoking, 104.2 thousand SVADs (7.7% reduction) and 2.05 million LYLs (17.3% reduction) are averted during 2017-2080 in the Permissive NVP Scenario compared to the Restricted NVP Scenario. Assuming 40% NVP excess risk, 70 thousand SVADs and 1.2 million LYLs are averted. The impact is sensitive to the rate at which smokers switch to NVPs and quit smoking, and relatively insensitive to the smoking initiation and NVP initiation and cessation rates.

Conclusions: The model suggests the potential for public health gains to be achieved by relaxing NVP access regulations. However, the model would benefit from better information regarding the impact of NVPs on smoking under a relaxation of current restrictions.

Implications: Australia has implemented a strong array of cigarette-oriented policies but has restricted access to nicotine vaping products (NVPs). The Smoking and Vaping Model offers a framework for modeling hypothetical policy scenarios. The Australian model shows the potential for public health gains by maintaining cigarette-oriented policies while relaxing the current restrictive NVP policy. Modeling results under a permissive NVP policy are particularly sensitive to the estimated rates of smoking cessation and switching to vaping, which are not well established and will likely depend on past and future cigarette-oriented policies and the specific NVP policies implemented in Australia.

Citation

Le Grande, M.R., Balmford, J., Borland, R., McNeill, A. (2023). Perceived health and capacity to cope with stress in recent ex-smokers: Impact of vaping versus quitting all nicotine. Nicotine and Tobacco Research, 25(3), 553-562.

Abstract

Background: Little is known about the continued use of nicotine following smoking cessation on perceived well-being in comparison to complete cessation of nicotine use. Aims: To explore aspects of perceived well-being and coping among recent ex-smokers as a function of vaping status.

Methods: Ever-daily smokers in the International Tobacco Control 4 country smoking and vaping surveys in 2016 (W1 N=883) and 2018 (W2 N=1088). Cross-sectional associations and longitudinal samples for those who quit between waves and those quit at W1 who maintained abstinence to W2.

Main outcome measures were: past 30 days depression symptoms, perceived stress, stress management since quitting and change in perceived day-to-day health.

Results: In the cross-sectional analyses vapers were more likely to report both improved stress management (aOR = 1.71, 95% CI 1.23-2.36) and perceived day-to-day health (aOR = 1.65, 95% CI 1.26-2.16) than nicotine abstainers. In the longitudinal analyses, smokers who switched to vaping between waves (n=372) were more likely to report depression symptoms at W2 (aOR = 2.00, 95% CI 1.09-3.65) but reported improved perceived health (aOR = 1.92, 95% CI 1.16-3.20). For the past daily smokers who remained quit between waves (n=382), vapers were more likely to report improved stress management relative to abstainers (RRR =5.05. 95% CI 1.19-21.40). There were no other significant differences between vapers and nicotine abstainers.

Conclusions: There is little evidence to support the view that perceptions of well-being deteriorate in vapers compared to complete nicotine abstainers in the immediate years after smoking cessation.

Implications: This study could find no conclusive evidence that the continued use of nicotine via e-cigarettes was detrimental to health compared to completely stopping nicotine intake altogether. Our results would suggest that continuing to use nicotine may even result in some benefits in the short term such as improved stress management, however further longitudinal studies are required to examine if these effects are restricted to the early post-quitting phase and whether other positive or negative effects on psychosocial health emerge in the future.

Citation

Freitas Lemos, R., Tegge, A.N., Athamneh, L.N., Tomlinson, D.C., Stein, J.S., Bickel, W.K. (2023). Narrative theory V: Narratives about penalties resulting from illegal tobacco purchases increase psychological distress. Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology, 31(1), 29-36.

Abstract

Previous research with individuals with substance use disorder indicated that different narratives have different effects on one's behaviors and decision-making. One question that remains unanswered is whether simulating real-world consequences of illegal purchases using narratives would induce psychological distress levels as expected in real-world situations.

The present experiment used a between-group design to study how different narratives regarding penalties impact smokers' affective state and more specifically, psychological distress. Participants (N = 93) were randomized into one of the three groups: (a) legal tobacco purchases (LTP), (b) illegal tobacco purchases with fines (ITP_F), and (c) illegal tobacco purchases with fines, criminal record, and negative public exposure (ITP_F + CR + NPE) to complete an online survey. The survey contained one narrative randomly assigned to each participant, demographic questions, the heaviness of smoking index, the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), and a single-item psychological distress question.

The results showed that (a) narratives about making illegal tobacco purchases significantly increased psychological distress when compared to narratives about making LTP, (b) no differences were observed on psychological distress and negative affective state between a narrative describing a fine and a narrative describing a fine, a criminal record, and negative public exposure, and (c) a narrative about a criminal record had the greatest effect on psychological distress among the different narratives about penalty types. Narratives involving illegal purchases increase psychological distress, which varies according to the hypothetical penalties described. More research regarding the use of narratives on decision-making and purchasing of hypothetical substances is warranted.

Citation

Kasza, K.A., Hammond, D., Gravely, S., O’Connor, R.J., Meng, G., East, K.A., Borland, R., Cummings, K.M., Fong, G.T., Hyland, A. (2023). Associations between nicotine vaping uptake and cigarette smoking cessation vary by smokers’ plans to quit: Longitudinal findings from the International Tobacco Control (ITC) Four Country Smoking and Vaping Surveys. Addiction, 118(2), 340-352.

Abstract

Background and aims: Most population studies that evaluate the relationship between nicotine vaping and cigarette cessation focus on limited segments of the smoker population. We evaluated vaping uptake and smoking cessation considering differences in smokers' plans to quit.

Design: Longitudinal ITC Four Country Smoking and Vaping Surveys conducted in 2016, 2018, and 2020. Setting: US, Canada, England, Australia.

Participants: Adult daily cigarette smokers who had not vaped in the past 6 months at baseline and had participated in two or more consecutive waves of the ITC Four Country Smoking and Vaping Surveys (n= 2,815).

Measurements: Plans to quit cigarette smoking at baseline (within 6 months, beyond 6 months, not planning to quit) and at follow-up (within 6 months versus not within 6 months); cigarette smoking cessation at follow-up (smoking less than monthly [including complete cessation] versus daily/weekly/monthly smoking); inter-wave vaping uptake (none, only nondaily vaping, any daily vaping). Generalized estimating equations were used to evaluate whether inter-wave vaping uptake was associated with smoking cessation at follow-up, and with planning to quit at follow-up, each stratified by plans to quit smoking at baseline.

Findings: Overall, 12.7% of smokers quit smoking. Smokers not initially planning to quit within 6 months experienced higher odds of smoking cessation when they took up daily vaping (32.4%) versus no vaping (6.8%; adjusted odds ratio [AOR]=8.58, 95% confidence interval [CI]:5.06-14.54). Among smokers planning to quit, smoking cessation rates were similar between those who did and did not take up daily vaping (25.1% vs. 16.8%; AOR=1.91, 95%CI:0.91-4.00), though we could not account for potential use of cessation aids. Daily vaping uptake was associated with planning to quit smoking at follow-up among those initially not planning to quit (AOR=6.32, 95%CI:4.17-9.59).

Conclusions: Uptake of nicotine vaping appears to be strongly associated with cigarette smoking cessation among smokers with no initial plans to quit smoking. Excluding smokers not planning to quit from studies on vaping and smoking cessation may underestimate potential benefit of daily vaping for daily smokers.

Citation

Levy, D.T., Thirlway, F., Sweanor, D.T., Liber, A.C., Sánchez-Romero, L.M., Meza, R., Douglas, C.E., Cummings, K.M. (2023). Do tobacco companies have an incentive to promote harm reduction products? The role of competition. Nicotine and Tobacco Research, [Published online, doi:10.1093/ntr/ntad014].

Abstract

Background: Some cigarette companies have started to talk about replacing cigarettes with less harmful alternatives, which might include nicotine vaping products (NVPs), heated tobacco products (HTPs) and oral nicotine delivery products (ONDPs). We consider market competition as a primary driver of whether cigarette companies follow through on their stated intentions.

Methods: We focus on the behavior of cigarette companies in the US. We compare competition in the pre- and post-2012 time periods, analyze the impact of the growth in NVPs on smoking prevalence and cigarette company profits, and examine the potential future role of competition.

Results: Since 2006, consumers have broadened their use of non-combustible nicotine delivery products (NCNDPs) to include, inter alia, NVPs, HTPs and ONDPs. US cigarette companies have acquired major stakes in each of these product categories which corresponds to a period of rapidly declining adult smoking prevalence, especially among younger adults (ages 18-24 years). The shifting dynamics of the nicotine product marketplace are also reflected in cigarette company stock prices. While cigarette companies are likely to promote HTPs and ONDPs over NVPs, their incentives will be directly related to competition from independent firms, which in turn will depend on government regulation.

Conclusions: While cigarette companies will back alternatives to combusted tobacco when threatened by competition, the prospects for their lasting conversion to NCNDPs will depend on the extent of such competition, which will be influenced by government regulation of tobacco products.

Implications: Regulations that limit competition from independent firms while also protecting cigarette company profits risk slowing or even reversing recent declines in smoking, especially among youth and young adults. Regulations that reduce the appeal and addictiveness of combusted tobacco products, such as higher cigarette taxes or a reduced nicotine standard, will encourage smokers to quit and/or switch to less harmful non-combusted forms of tobacco. The regulation of non-combustible nicotine delivery products and cigarettes should be proportionate to their relative risks, so that smokers have incentives to switch from combustibles to safer alternatives, and cigarette companies have incentives to promote safer products.

Citation

Chung-Hall, J., Fong, G.T., Meng, G., Craig, L.V. (2023). Illicit cigarette purchasing after implementation of menthol ban in Canada: Findings from the 2016-2018 ITC Four Country Smoking and Vaping Surveys. Tobacco Control, [Published online, doi:10.1136/tc-2022-057697].

Abstract

Objective: To examine the impact of menthol cigarette bans on use and purchasing of illicit cigarettes among menthol and non-menthol smokers in seven Canadian provinces.

Methods: Data from 1098 non-menthol smokers and 138 menthol smokers in Canada who completed the ITC Four Country Smoking and Vaping Survey in 2016 (pre-ban) and 2018 (post-ban). Brand validation analysis was conducted to (1) compare self-reported use of menthols versus actual use of menthols as regular brand, and verify self-reported purchasing of menthols among pre-ban menthol smokers at post-ban; and (2) assess pre-post ban changes in purchasing of illicit cigarettes from First Nations reserves among non-menthol smokers and menthol smokers.

Results: Among the subset of 138 pre-ban menthol smokers, 36 (19.5%) reported smoking menthols at post-ban. Brand validation analyses showed that 19 (9.0%) were actually using a non-menthol brand; of the 17 (10.5%) who were actually using a menthol brand, 13 (7.9%) bought a menthol brand at last purchase, and 4 (2.6%) bought a non-menthol brand. Among the full sample of smokers who purchased cigarettes from First Nations reserves at both pre-ban and post-ban, there was no change in purchasing of menthols (n=9 menthol smokers; 51.2% vs 51.2%, p=1.00), non-menthols (n=1024 non-menthol smokers; 9.1% vs 8.7%, p=0.69) or all cigarettes (menthol+non-menthol) (n=1086 smokers; 9.7% vs 9.2%, p=0.56).

Conclusions: Actual rates of brand-verified menthol smoking were substantially lower than self-reported rates at post-ban. After Canada’s menthol ban, there was no increase in illicit purchasing of menthol or non-menthol cigarettes from First Nations reserves.

Press:

January 12, 2023 | UW News | Study refutes industry claims that ban on menthol cigarettes leads to increased use of illegal smokes

Citation

Fix, B.V., O’Connor, R.J., Goniewicz, M.L., Leigh, N.J., Cummings, K.M., Hitchman, S.C., Fong, G.T., Nahhas, G.J., Hammond, D., McNeill, A., Borland, R., King, B., Palumbo, M. (2023). Characterisation of vaping liquids used in vaping devices across four countries: Results from an analysis of selected vaping liquids reported by users in the 2016 ITC Four Country Smoking and Vaping Survey. Tobacco Control, 32(1), 51-59.

Abstract

Objectives: This study presents an analysis of vaping products (VPs) purchased in the USA, Canada, England and Australia and assesses whether differences in regulations were associated with differences in the chemical composition of the VPs.

Methods: April-September 2017, a total of 234 VP refill liquids and prefilled cartridges were purchased in convenience samples of retail locations in each country. Products were chosen from brands and styles most commonly reported by current VP users in the 2016 ITC Four Country Smoking and Vaping Survey. All products were tested for nicotine, tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs), minor tobacco alkaloids, organic acids and flavouring chemicals.

Results: Consistent with the laws in Canada and Australia at the time of product purchase, nicotine was not detected in any of the VPs (n=10 in Canada; n=15 in Australia). US liquids (n=54) had a mean nicotine concentration of 16.2 mg/mL, (range=0.0-58.6) and English liquids (n=166) had a mean concentration of 11.9 mg/mL ((range=0.0-31.2) F(3244)=12.32, p<0.001). About 5% of English samples exceeded the UK's 20 mg/mL nicotine limit. Substantial country differences were observed in levels of TSNAs, with the USA being higher than elsewhere. Of all products tested, 18.8% contained at least one organic acid. Liquids purchased in England contained far more identifiable flavouring chemicals than those in the other countries.

Conclusions: VP composition, particularly with respect to nicotine and flavouring, varies by country, likely reflecting both marketplace preferences and country-specific regulations. There are differences between nicotine levels claimed on the package and actual levels, particularly in England.

Citation

Hammond, D., Reid, J., Burkhalter, R., O’Connor, R.J., Goniewicz, M.L., Wackowski, O.A., Thrasher, J.F., Hitchman, S.C. (2023). Trends in e-cigarette brands, devices and the nicotine profile of products used by youth in England, Canada and the USA: 2017-2019. Tobacco Control, 32(1), 19-29.

Abstract

Background: The e-cigarette market has rapidly evolved, with a shift towards higher nicotine concentration and salt-based products, such as JUUL; however, the implications for youth vaping remain unclear.

Methods: Repeat cross-sectional online surveys were conducted in 2017, 2018 and 2019, with national samples of youth aged 16–19 years recruited from commercial panels in Canada (n=12 018), England (n=11 362) and the USA (n=12 110). Regression models examined differences between countries and over time in the types of e-cigarette products used (design and nicotine content), reasons for using brands and differences in patterns of use, sociodemographics and dependence symptoms by brand/nicotine content.

Results: In 2019, the use of pod- or cartridge-style e-cigarettes was greater in Canada and the USA than England, with Smok and JUUL the leading brands in all countries. In 2019, youth vapers in England were less likely to report using e-cigarettes with ≥2% nicotine (12.8%) compared with Canada (40.5%; adjusted OR (AOR)=4.96; 95% CI 3.51 to 7.01) and the USA (37.0%; AOR=3.99, 95% CI 2.79 to 5.71) and less likely to report using nicotine salt-based products (12.3%) compared with Canada (27.1%; AOR=2.77, 95% CI 1.93 to 3.99) and the USA (21.9%; AOR=2.00, 95% CI 1.36 to 2.95). In 2019, self-reported use of products with higher nicotine concentration was associated with significantly greater frequency of vaping, urges to vape and perceived vaping addiction (p<0.05 for all).

Conclusions: The use of high-nicotine salt-based products is associated with greater symptoms of dependence, including JUUL and other higher-nicotine brands. Greater use of high-nicotine salt-based products may account for recent increases in the frequency of vaping among youth in Canada and the USA.

Citation

Li, L., Borland, R., Cummings, K.M., Fong, G.T., Hyland, A., Le Grande, M., McNeill, A. (2023). Non-cigarette combustible tobacco use and its associations with subsequent cessation of smoking among daily cigarette smokers: Findings from the International Tobacco Control Four Country Smoking and Vaping Surveys (2016-2020). Addiction, 118(1), 140-148.

Abstract

Aims: To examine whether poly-use of cigarettes and other smoked products (poly-smoking) is predictive of quit attempts and quit success.

Design: A prospective multi-country cohort design.

Setting: Australia, Canada, England and the US.

Participants: 3983 adult daily cigarette smokers were surveyed in 2016 (Wave 1 of data collection) and were recontacted in 2018 (Wave 2) (i.e., Wave 1–Wave 2 cohort) in the International Tobacco Control Four Country Smoking and Vaping (ITC 4CV) Surveys; and 3736 smokers were surveyed in 2018 and recontacted in 2020 (Wave 3) (i.e., Wave 2–Wave 3 cohort).

Measurements: Participants were asked about their cigarette smoking and use of cigars, cigarillos, pipes, and waterpipes. Outcomes were quit attempts between two survey waves and success, defined as having quit smoking all the combustible tobacco at the subsequent survey for 1 month or more.

Findings: Levels of poly-smoking were 12.7% in the Wave 1–Wave 2 cohort and 10.5% for the Wave 2–Wave 3 cohort. Compared with cigarette-only smokers, poly-smokers were more likely to attempt between Waves 1 and 2 (54.9% vs. 42.7%, adjusted odds ratio (aOR)=1.37, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08-1.74, p<0.01), but not between Waves 2 and 3 (43.8% vs. 40.1%, aOR=0.94, 95%CI 0.72-1.22). Poly-smoking predicted reduced likelihood of success in both cohorts among attempters and the overall samples. Between Waves 2 and 3 there were significantly more transitions to non-daily smoking among the poly-smokers (12.4% vs. 5.3%, 2=40.4, p<0.001).

Conclusions: There is a consistent association between poly-smoking (use of cigarettes along with other smoked products) and reduced quit success for combustible tobacco, but it is likely due to increased likelihood of transitioning to non-daily use rather than complete cessation.

Citation

Cheng, K-W., Liu, G., Pesko, M., Levy, D.T., Fong, G.T., Cummings, K.M. (2023). Impact of vaping restrictions in public places on smoking and vaping in the US: Evidence using a difference-in-differences approach. Addiction, 118(1), 160-166.

Abstract

Aims: To estimate whether and to what extent extending indoor smoking restrictions to include electronic cigarettes (ECs) impact the use of ECs and cigarette smoking among adults in the US. Design: Observational study using a linear probability model and applying a difference-in-differences analysis SETTING: USA PARTICIPANTS: People aged 18 to 54 who lived in US counties where comprehensive indoor smoking laws in bars, restaurants, and private workplaces have been in place prior to 2010 (N = 45,111 for EC use analysis, N = 75,959 for cigarette use analysis). Measurements: Data on cigarette smoking, use of ECs, and place of residence from the Tobacco Use Supplement of the Current Population Survey (TUS-CPS 2010-2011, 2014-2015, and 2018-2019) were combined with the American Nonsmokers' Rights Foundation (ANRF) database of state and local indoor smoking and vaping restriction laws. Findings: Indoor vaping restriction (IVR) coverage was not significantly associated with the likelihood of adult EC use (coefficient estimate = 0.001; 95% confidence interval [CI] =-0.009, 0.013, P-value = 0.783). In addition, IVR coverage was not significantly associated with adult cigarette smoking (coefficient estimate = -0.00; 95% CI = -0.016, 0.015, P-value = 0.954). The non-significant results appeared in different socio-demographic subgroups. Conclusions: Indoor vaping restrictions do not appear to decrease electronic cigarette use among US adults. There is no evidence that indoor vaping restrictions increase or decrease cigarette smoking among US adults.

Citation

Soriano, J.B., Fu, M., Castellano, Y., Ancochea, J., Fong, G.T., Fernández, E. (2023). Face mask exemptions, respiratory patients, and COVID-19 in Spain: Data from the 2021 ITC EUREST-PLUS Spain Survey. Open Respiratory Archives, 5(1), 100218.

Citation

Lyu, J., Sung, H.Y., Yao, T., Jiang, N., Quah, A.C.K., Meng, G., Jiang, Y., Fong, G.T., Max, W. (2022). Cigarette gifting among non-smokers in China: Findings from the International Tobacco Control China Survey. Nicotine and Tobacco Research, [Published online, doi:10.1093/ntr/ntac294].

Abstract

Objective: To examine the percentage and correlates of giving and receiving cigarettes as gifts among adult non-smokers in China.

Methods: We analyzed non-smokers (N=1,813) aged ≥18 years using data from the International Tobacco Control China Wave 5 Survey. Descriptive statistics summarized the characteristics of those who gave and received cigarettes as gifts. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with the two behaviors.

Results: Among non-smokers, 9.9% reported giving cigarettes as gifts to family or friends in the last 6 months. Higher level of knowledge about smoking harms was associated with lower adjusted odds of gifting cigarettes. Non-smokers aged 25-39, with middle income, positive attitude toward cigarette gifts, exposure to anti-smoking information and smoking promotion, and those who reported receiving cigarettes as gifts from family or friends were more likely to give cigarettes as gifts. 6.6% of non-smokers reported receiving cigarettes as gifts in the last 6 months. High education, neutral or positive attitude toward cigarette gifts, exposure to anti-smoking information, exposure to smoking promotion, and having smoking friends were associated with receiving cigarettes as gifts.

Conclusions: It is concerning that Chinese cultural norms that support cigarette gifting have extended to giving non-smokers cigarettes as gifts. Effective anti-smoking messages are needed. Changing the norms around cigarette gifting and increasing knowledge about smoking harms should help reduce cigarette gifting among non-smokers. Implications Easy access to cigarettes received as gifts, along with the wide acceptance of smoking in China, places Chinese non-smokers in a risky position. More educational campaigns targeting non-smokers to proactively prevent them from smoking are called for. The ineffectiveness of existing anti-smoking information highlights the need for more effective antismoking messages. That attitude toward cigarette gifts is the strongest predictor of giving cigarettes as gifts suggests a need for interventions to reverse the positive attitude about cigarette gifting in order to decrease the popularity of this activity.

Citation

Nagelhout, G.E., Poole, N., Geboers, C., Magnée, T., Kaag, A.M., van den Brand, F.A., van den Putte, B., de Vries, H., Fong, G.T., Willemsen, M.C. (2022). Smoking cessation among gender minority populations, cis-women, and cis-men: Findings from the International Tobacco Control (ITC) Netherlands Survey. Nicotine and Tobacco Research, [Published online, doi:10.1093/ntr/ntac283].

Abstract

Background: Little is known about smoking cessation among gender minority populations compared to cis-gender individuals (whose gender matches their sex assigned at birth). We examined differences between smokers from gender minority populations, cis-women, and cis-men in heaviness of smoking, quit intentions, use of cessation assistance, quit attempts (ever tried and number), and triggers for thinking about quitting.

Methods: We used cross-sectional data from the 2020 International Tobacco Control (ITC) Netherlands Survey. Among smoking respondents, we distinguished (1) cis-women (female sex, identified as women, and having feminine gender roles; n=670), (2) cis-men (male sex, identified as men, and having masculine gender roles; n=897), and (3) gender minorities (individuals who were intersex, who identified as nonbinary, genderqueer, had a sex/gender identity not listed, whose gender roles were not feminine or masculine, or whose gender identity and/or roles were not congruent with sex assigned at birth; n=220).

Results: Although gender minorities did not differ from cis-women and cis-men in heaviness of smoking, plans to quit smoking, and quit attempts, they were significantly more likely to use cessation assistance (20% in the past six months) than cis-women (12%) and cis-men (9%). Gender minorities were also significantly more likely to report several triggers for thinking about quitting smoking, e.g. quit advice from a doctor, an anti-smoking message/campaign, and the availability of a telephone helpline.

Conclusion: Despite equal levels of quit attempts and heaviness of smoking, gender minority smokers make more use of smoking assistance, and respond stronger to triggers for thinking about quitting smoking.

Citation

Gravely, S., Driezen, P., McClure, E., Hammond, D., Cummings, K.M., Chan, G.C.K., Hyland, A., Borland, R., East, K., Fong, G.T., Schauer, G.L., Quah, A.C.K., Ouimet, J., Smith, D.M. (2022). Differences between adults who smoke cigarettes daily and do and do not co-use cannabis: Findings from the 2020 ITC Four Country Smoking and Vaping Survey. Addictive Behaviours, 135, 107434. doi: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2022.107434.

Abstract

Background: Little is known about population-level differences between adults who exclusively smoke cigarettes and those who smoke cigarettes and also use cannabis (co-consumers). Thus, this study describes differences on sociodemographic, cigarette-dependence, health and behavioral variables, and risk perceptions associated with smoking cannabis.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 6941 respondents from the 2020 ITC Four Country Smoking and Vaping Survey (US, Canada, Australia, England). Adult daily cigarette smokers were included and categorized as: cigarette-only smokers (never used cannabis/previously used cannabis, but not in the past 12 months, n=4857); occasional co-consumers (cannabis use in the past 12 months, but<weekly use, n=739); or regular co-consumers (use cannabis ≥weekly, n=1345). All outcomes were self-reported. Regression models were conducted on weighted data.

Results: Overall, 19.9% of respondents reported regular cannabis co-use and 10.1% reported occasional co-use. Regular co-use was highest in Canada (27.2%), followed by the US (24.4%), England (12.7%) and Australia (12.3%). Compared to cigarette-only smokers, regular co-consumers were more likely to be male and report chest/breathing problems (p<0.001). All co-consumers were more likely to be younger, have lower income, be experiencing financial stress, reside in Canada, have depressive symptoms, use alcohol more frequently and binge drink, use other tobacco/nicotine products, and perceive smoking cannabis as low health risk and less harmful than smoking cigarettes (all p><0.001). Cigarette dependence measures were similar between co-consumers and cigarette-only smokers (all p≥0.05).

Conclusions: Although there were no differences on cigarette dependence measures between daily cigarette smokers who do and do not use cannabis, there are several other risk factors that may affect tobacco use and abstinence among co-consumers (e.g., greater depression, high-risk alcohol consumption). Thus, tobacco cessation treatment may require multi-pronged strategies to address other health behaviors. Continued surveillance is needed to determine the nature and health implications of co-use considering changing policies, markets, and products.

Citation

Geboers, C., Candel, M.J.J.M., Chaloupka, F.J., Nagelhout, G.E., de Vries, H., van den Putte, B., Shang, C., Fong, G.T., Willemsen, M.C. (2022). Trends in individualised affordability of factory-made cigarettes: findings of the 2008-2020 International Tobacco Control (ITC) Netherlands Surveys. Nicotine and Tobacco Research, [Published online, doi:10.1093/ntr/ntac259].

Abstract

Introduction: Cigarette affordability, the price of tobacco relative to consumer income, is a key determinant of tobacco consumption. This study examined trends over 12 years in individualised factorymade cigarette affordability in the Netherlands, and whether these trends differed by sex, age, and education.

Methods: Data from 10 waves (2008-2020) of the International Tobacco Control (ITC) Netherlands Surveys were used to estimate individualised affordability, measured as the percentage of income required to buy 100 cigarette packs (Relative Income Price, RIP), using self-reported prices and income. The higher the RIP, the less affordable cigarettes are. Generalised estimating equation regression models assessed trends in individualised affordability over time and by sex, age, and education.

Results: Affordability decreased significantly between 2008 and 2020, with RIP increasing from 1.89% (2008) to 2.64% (2020) (p≤.001), Except for 2008-2010, no significant year-on-year changes in affordability were found. Lower affordability was found among subgroups who have a lower income level: females (versus males), 18-24- and 25–39-year-olds (versus 55 and over) and low or moderate educated individuals (versus high educated). Interactions between wave and education (p=.007) were found, but not with sex (p=.653) or age (p=.295). A decreasing linear trend in affordability was found for moderately (p=.041) and high-educated (p=.025), but not for low-educated individuals (p=.149).

Conclusions: Cigarettes in the Netherlands have become less affordable between 2008 and 2020, yet this was mostly due to the decrease in affordability between 2008 and 2010. There is a need for more significant increases in tax to further decrease affordability.

Implications: Our findings suggest that cigarettes have become less affordable in the Netherlands between 2008 and 2020. But this appears to be the result of a steep decrease in affordability between 2008 and 2010. Affordability was lower among groups who have on average lower incomes (females, young adults, low- and moderate educated individuals), and differences in trends across education levels could be explained by per capita income changes. Our individualised measure indicated lower affordability than published aggregate affordability estimations. Future tax increases should be large enough to result in a lower affordability.

Citation

Schneller, L., Kasza, K, Hammond, D., Bansal-Travers, M., O’Connor, R.J., Hyland, A. (2022). E-cigarette and tobacco product use among NYS youth before and after a state-wide vaping flavour restriction policy, 2020-2021. Tobacco Control, 31 (Suppl3), s161-s166.

Abstract

Significance: Reducing youth e-cigarette use is a New York State (NYS) public health priority. In May 2020, a state-wide restriction on flavoured e-cigarettes, except tobacco flavour, was passed. This study examines changes in nicotine product use behaviour among youth around the time of the state-wide vaping flavour restriction.

Methods: NYS data from the US International Tobacco Control Policy Evaluation Project Youth Tobacco and E-cigarette Tobacco and Vaping Survey were analysed cross-sectionally from February 2020 (n=955), August 2020 (n=946), February 2021 (n=1030), and August 2021 (n=753). Online surveys were conducted among youth 16–19 years. Weighted descriptive statistics and regression models were used to describe changes in nicotine product use behaviour. Models were adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity and perceived family socioeconomic status.

Results: Significant decreases in past 30-day e-cigarette use (20%–11%), cigarette (7%-4%), and dual use of e-cigarettes and cigarettes (5%–2%) were observed over the 2-year period in NYS. Over 95% of vapers still reported using a non-tobacco-flavoured e-cigarette following the restriction, with fruit-flavoured being the most popular at each time point.

Conclusions: Nearly all NYS youth continued to vape flavours that were restricted in NYS. While youth past 30-day vaping prevalence decreased significantly from 2020 to 2021, increased flavour restriction compliance could result in an even greater decrease. Continuous monitoring is important to better understand perceptions, use patterns and access at the individual level, retail level and population level to inform future enforcement and restrictions.

Citation

Freitas Lemos, R., Stein, J.S., Tegge, A.N., Kaplan, B.A., Heckman, B.W., McNeill, A., Cummings, K.M., Fong, G.T., Bickel, W.K. (2022). The Illegal Experimental Tobacco Marketplace II: Effects of vaping product bans - findings from the 2020 International Tobacco Control Project. Tobacco Control, 31(Suppl 3), s214-s222.

Abstract

Significance: Restrictive e-cigarette policies may increase purchases from illegal sources. The Illegal Experimental Tobacco Marketplace (IETM) allows examination of how restrictions impact illegal purchases. We investigated (1) the effect of a vaping ban, total flavour vaping ban and partial flavour vaping ban on the probability of purchasing illegal vaping products among different regulatory environments (USA, Canada and England) and tobacco user types (cigarette smokers, dual users and e-cigarette users); and (2) the relation between ban endorsement and illegal purchases.

Methods: Participants (N=459) from the International Tobacco Control Survey rated their support of bans and chose to purchase from a hypothetical legal experimental tobacco marketplace or IETM under control and the three ban conditions.

Results: In total, 25% of cigarette smokers, 67% of dual users and 79% of e-cigarette users made IETM purchases. Cross-country comparisons depicted dual users from Canada (OR: 19.8), and e-cigarette users from the USA (OR: 12.9) exhibited higher illegal purchases odds than the same user type in England. Within-country comparisons showed e-cigarette and dual users are more likely to purchase from the IETM than cigarette smokers in the most restrictive condition, with the largest effects in e-cigarette users (England-OR: 1722.6, USA-OR: 22725.3, Canada-OR: 6125.0). Increased opposition towards partial or total flavour ban was associated with increased IETM purchasing in the corresponding condition.

Conclusions: Vaping restrictions may shift users' preference to the illegal marketplace in a regulatory environment. Evidence of the IETM generalisability in a geographically dispersed sample enhances its utility in tobacco regulatory science.

Citation

Loewen, R., Bauer, E., Thompson, M.E., Martin, N., Quah, A.C.K., Fong, G.T. (2022). Timing estimates for complex programmed surveys. Survey Practice, 15(1). doi: 10.29115/SP-2022-0011.

Abstract

Developing a method for estimating average survey completion time—easily, accurately, and repeatedly—was a many-years-long aspiration for the International Tobacco Control Policy Evaluation (ITC) Project. This article describes the three survey length estimation methods used for the ITC Project’s complex programmed surveys, with their respective merits and disadvantages. Method I, Read-Throughs, required staff to read through different versions of the survey. Automating this approach in Method II, Word Counts, replaced staff reading with question word counts and a postulated reading speed, but still required creation of multiple versions that were timed separately. Method III, Weighted Questions, also automated, was streamlined by weighting individual questions, rather than survey versions, by the proportion of respondents likely to answer them. The two automated methods greatly reduced staff time cost, provided surprisingly accurate time estimates, and made it possible to quickly re-estimate the length after each survey revision. Other survey researchers using surveys with complex branching may benefit from our experimentation and results.

Citation

Gravely, S., Yong, H.H., Reid, J., East, K.A., Gartner, C., Levy, D.T., Cummings, K.M., Borland, R., Quah, A.C.K., Bansal-Travers, M., Ouimet, J., Fong, G.T. (2022). Do current smokers and ex-smokers who use nicotine vaping products daily versus weekly differ on their reasons for vaping? Findings from the ITC Four Country Smoking and Vaping Survey. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(21), 14130. doi: 10.3390/ijerph192114130.

Abstract

This study examined reasons why adults who currently smoke or formerly smoked cigarettes use nicotine vaping products (NVPs) by vaping frequency (daily vs. weekly) stratified by smoking status.

This crosssectional study included 3070 adults from the 2020 ITC Four Country Smoking and Vaping Survey (Australia, Canada, England, United States) who reported using a NVP (vaping) at least weekly and who either currently smoke (n = 2467) or formerly smoked (n = 603). Respondents were asked to select the reason(s) they use NVPs, including to manage their smoking (reduce/quit or remain quit) and/or for reasons unrelated to managing smoking (e.g., to save money, enjoyment, flavours).

We found that both current and former smokers endorsed an average of six reasons for vaping, with those vaping daily reporting significantly more reasons than those vaping weekly. Among current smokers, 72.8% reported vaping may help them quit smoking, 13.0% reported vaping to reduce smoking but not to quit, and 14.2% reported vaping only for reasons other than to reduce or quit smoking. The most common reason for vaping among current smokers was to reduce smoking (81.3%). Current smokers vaping daily were significantly more likely than those vaping weekly to report using a NVP to reduce smoking, for enjoyment, to reduce harm to themselves and others, to quit smoking, likeable flavours, and to save money. The most common reason cited for vaping by respondents who formerly smoked was enjoyment, with those who vaped daily more likely than those who vaped weekly to report vaping for enjoyment and to reduce harm to themselves. Nearly all reported vaping to help stay abstinent from smoking (92.3%), with no significant difference by vaping frequency.

In conclusion, a majority of respondents reported using NVPs to manage their smoking (reduce/quit smoking or remain quit), particularly those vaping daily. Those who were vaping daily also endorsed a greater number of reasons other than managing smoking relative to those who were vaping weekly.