Electronic nicotine delivery systems: use, knowledge, and attitudes among diverse college students

J Am Coll Health. 2022 Oct;70(7):2159-2167. doi: 10.1080/07448481.2020.1846044. Epub 2021 Mar 24.

Abstract

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to examine Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) use among nonusers in diverse college students. Participants: Participants were college students enrolled at a Hispanic-Serving University in Chicago, IL, USA in December 2017. Methods: An online survey was administered using questions about ENDS-use behaviors, device characteristics, and knowledge of their own device, and ENDS attitudes. ENDS attitudes included questions about health, susceptibility, and quit characteristics. Results: The prevalence rate of ENDS use was 7%, and 39% of ENDS users identified all device characteristics. Nonusers categorize ENDS as a healthier alternative to cigarettes and as quit devices. Finally, cigarette use, age, health factor, and social proximity are correlated with ENDS susceptibility. Conclusions: These ENDS users lack awareness of their devices and tobacco use plays a key role in ENDS susceptibility. Future studies should continue to study the role ENDS has in dependence and cigarette use.

Keywords: Attitudes; ENDS; e-cigarette; knowledge; minority; susceptibility.

MeSH terms

  • Attitude
  • Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems*
  • Humans
  • Students
  • Tobacco Products*
  • Universities