Peer crowd-based targeting in E-cigarette advertisements: a qualitative study to inform counter-marketing.

BACKGROUND:Cigarette lifestyle marketing with psychographic targeting has been well documented, but few studies address non-cigarette tobacco products. This study examined how young adults respond to e-cigarette advertisements featuring diverse peer crowds - peer groups with shared identities and lifestyles - to inform tobacco counter-marketing design. METHODS:Fifty-nine young adult tobacco users in California participated in interviews and viewed four to five e-cigarette advertisements that featured characters from various peer crowd groups. For each participant, half of the advertisements they viewed showed characters from the same peer crowd as their own, and the other half of the advertisements featured characters from a different peer crowd. Advertisements were presented in random order. Questions probed what types of cues are noticed in the advertisements, and whether and how much participants liked or disliked the advertisements. RESULTS:Results suggest that participants liked and provided richer descriptions of characters and social situations in the advertisements featuring their own peer crowd more than the advertisements featuring a different peer crowd. Mismatching age or device type was also noted: participants reported advertisements showing older adults were not intended for them. Participants who used larger vaporizers tended to dislike cigalike advertisements even if they featured a matching peer crowd. CONCLUSION:Peer crowd and lifestyle cues, age and device type are all salient features of e-cigarette advertising for young adults. Similarly, educational campaigns about e-cigarettes should employ peer crowd-based targeting to engage young adults, though messages should be carefully tested to ensure authentic and realistic portrayals

ENDS DEVICE TYPES AND SUBSEQUENT USE OF COMBUSTIBLE TOBACCO PRODUCTS AMONG TEXAS YOUTH

The aims of the study were to determine whether ENDS device types (i.e., disposable devices, replaceable cartridges, and refillables) at initial, or first ENDS use is longitudinally associated with subsequent initiation of combustible tobacco products (cigarettes, hookah, cigars) and continued, past 30-day use of combustible and ENDS products. This study is a secondary analysis of data from the Texas Adolescent Tobacco and Marketing Surveillance system (TATAMS) study, a longitudinal cohort study of students who were in the 6th, 8th, and 10th grades (n = 3907) during the 2014-2015 academic year. Data were collected every 6 months, from 2014-2018. Using data from all 8 waves of the study, descriptive statistics were computed for initial ENDS device type (disposables, cartridges, and refillables), initial and past 30-day use of combustible tobacco products (subsequent to ENDS use), and past 30-day ENDS use (among ever ENDS users). Unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression models were computed to assess the likelihood of (a) initiation of combustible tobacco products in subsequent waves, (b) continued use of combustible tobacco products (past 30-day use) and (c) continued use of ENDS products (past 30-day use) in the same or subsequent waves, by initial ENDS device type. After adjusting for the sociodemographic variables, compared to participants initiating with Refillables, participants initiating ENDS use with Cartridges and Disposables were 58% (AOR = 0.42; 95% CI = 0.18 – 0.98; p = 0.05) and 53% (AOR = 0.47; 95% CI = 0.21-1.07; p = 0.07) less likely to initiate combustible tobacco use in a subsequent wave. Compared to participants initiating with Disposables, participants initiating ENDS use with Cartridges were 12% (AOR = 0.89; 95% CI = 0.32 – 2.50; p = 0.89) less likely to initiate combustible tobacco use in a subsequent wave. Compared to participants initiating with Disposables, participants initiating ENDS use with Cartridges were 12% (AOR = 0.88; 95% CI = 0.21 – 3.68; p = 0.86) less likely to have reported combustible tobacco use in the past 30-days. Compared to participants initiating with Disposables, participants initiating ENDS use with Cartridges were 62% (AOR = 0.38; 95% CI = 0.16 – 0.92; p = 0.03) less likely to have reported ENDS use in the past 30-days. The study provides an insight into the impact device types can have on future smoking behavior and the implication it can have on policy and regulation

Discrimination of Disposable Vapes from Batteries Using the Magnetic Polarizability Tensor

Disposable vapes pose an environmental and fire hazard to waste streams when disposed of incorrectly. The lithium battery inside disposable vapes can produce an exothermic reaction when the lithium inside the battery is inadvertently exposed to air and moisture. New sensing technologies may be needed to screen waste streams for these vape hazards and this paper considers the potential of inductive techniques based on the magnetic polarisability tensor (MPT) representation. The MPT can be described by three complex components based on a target regardless of orientation. In this paper, the rank 2 MPT is measured and calculated for 10 vapes and 37 batteries for 28 logarithmically spaced frequencies from 119 Hz to 95.4 KHz. The 168 features of each object are reduced down to 2 features using principal component analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis. The reduction of the features allows for the visualisation and grouping of the objects. Three clear groups of objects can be seen when the maximum feature scales the measurement and a two-component PCA transform is applied. The first group is the vapes, which are grouped away from the other batteries. The second is the batteries, which are grouped by size. Finally, zinc batteries are grouped away from the rest due to their case material.<br/

Deconstructing contemporary disposable vapes: A material and elemental analysis

Disposable e-cigarettes (vapes) are becoming increasingly popular but there are concerns about their impacts on human health, the environment and resource sustainability. A better understanding of these impacts and potential solutions requires characterisation and quantification of the materials and chemicals used in their construction. In the present study we dismantle nine types of popular, single-use vapes and analyse the components by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and pyrolysis-gas chromatography mass spectrometry. The median dry mass of vapes was about 50 g, and the main material contribution was either plastic (up to about 80 %) or metal (up to about 85 %, and including the battery). Polycarbonate was the principal plastic used in the casing and nylon was always employed in the wick, but a range of other polymers were identified in other components used in wire insulation, sleeving, packaging, bundling and sealing. Various elements, as additives, residues or contaminants, were encountered in these parts that included As, Ba, Bi, Cr, Hg, Pb and Sb. Metal components were constructed of Al (often with Ti), stainless steel or Ni-based alloys (mainly in the coils), but other metals were often incorporated in alloys (e.g., Bi, Pb, W) or were present in trace quantities (including Co and Nb). Common metals in the Al-plastic-laminated Li-ion batteries were Cu, Co, Fe and Ni, but Au, Ba, Hg and Pb were also detected, while additional metals in the Cu-based printed circuit boards included Ag, Al, Ni, Sn, Ti and V, with traces of Ag, Bi, Mn, Nb and Pb present. The presence of toxic or potentially toxic metals in the vapes poses an environmental hazard through leaching after littering or landfilling, while metals within or in contact with the wick raise concerns about transfer to the e-liquid and exposure to the user. The overall material and chemical complexity of vapes presents challenges for safe disposal and component recycling, but the presence of critical elements, like Bi, Co, Nb, Sb, Sn, V and W, has additional implications for resource management

Who would be affected by a ban on disposable vapes? A population study in Great Britain

OBJECTIVE: The UK government is consulting on banning disposable e-cigarettes. This study aimed to describe trends in disposable e-cigarette use among adults in Great Britain since 2021 and establish who would currently be affected by a ban on disposables. STUDY DESIGN: Nationally-representative monthly cross-sectional survey. METHODS: We analysed data from 69,973 adults surveyed between January 2021 and August 2023. We estimated monthly time trends in the weighted prevalence of current disposable e-cigarette use among adults and by sociodemographic characteristics and smoking status. RESULTS: From January 2021 to August 2023, the prevalence of disposable e-cigarette use grew from 0.1 % to 4.9 %. This rise was observed across all population subgroups but was most pronounced among younger adults (e.g. reaching 15.9 % of 18-year-olds compared with 1.3 % of 65-year-olds), those who currently smoke (16.3 %), and those who stopped smoking in the past year (18.2 %). Use among never smokers remained relatively rare (1.5 %), except among 18- to 24-year-olds (7.1 %). Use was significantly higher in England than Wales or Scotland (5.3 % vs. 2.0 % and 2.8 %) and among less (vs. more) advantaged social grades (6.1 % vs. 4.0 %), those with (vs. without) children (6.4 % vs. 4.4 %), and those with (vs. without) a history of mental health conditions (9.3 % vs. 3.1 %). CONCLUSIONS: A ban on disposable e-cigarettes would currently affect one in 20 adults in Great Britain (approximately 2.6 million people). The proportion who would be affected would be greatest among young people, including the 316,000 18-24 year-olds who currently use disposables but who have never regularly smoked tobacco, which may discourage uptake of vaping in this group. However, a ban would also affect 1.2 million people who currently smoke and a further 744,000 who previously smoked. It would also have a disproportionate impact on disadvantaged groups that have higher rates of smoking and typically find it harder to quit

Vaping among young people in Greater Manchester::the views of young people and key adult stakeholders

Executive SummaryThis report examines the growing trend of youth vaping in NorthernEngland, a region with some of the UK’s highest adolescent vapingrates. Initially developed to support adult smoking cessation, e-cigarettes(vapes) have become widely accessible and attractively marketedproducts, raising concerns about their popularity among young people.With UK youth vaping rates reaching 18% in 2024, and growingevidence linking vaping to respiratory problems and potential nicotineaddiction, understanding the factors driving this trend and theperspectives of both young people and influential adults is crucial forpublic health.Research FocusThis qualitative study was designed to explore the perspectives of bothyoung people and significant adults—such as parents, teachers, andhealth and social care professionals—on youth vaping in GreaterManchester. Focus groups and interviews were conducted to gaininsights into young people’s motivations, health perceptions, and socialinfluences regarding vaping, while adults shared their views on itsprevalence and potential interventions.Key FindingsFour main themes are presented:Normalisation of Youth Vaping: Both young people and adults notedvaping’s growing acceptance as part of youth culture, with someparticipants describing it as a pervasive and entrenched behaviour akinto “the new smoking.” Youth participants expressed concern overvaping’s addictive nature and shared that it has become a widespreadsocial expectation.Drivers of Vaping: The appealing design, fruity flavours, and ease ofaccess to vapes were highlighted as key motivators for youth vaping.Many young people perceived these attributes as “kid-friendly,” makingvaping feel less harmful. Social influences, including peer pressureplayed a significant role in driving youth vaping.Health Risks and Perceptions: Both groups shared concerns about thehealth risks associated with vaping, particularly its impact on respiratoryhealth and potential for nicotine addiction. However, many young peopleperceived themselves as invincible, downplaying these risks. Both youthand adults noted inconsistent messaging on vaping’s health impacts,leading to confusion and reduced risk perception among young people.Approaches to Address Youth Vaping: Adults advocated foreducational interventions that would present factual information aboutvaping risks in a way that respects young people’s autonomy.Participants recommended avoiding scare tactics, which might provokedefensive responses, and suggested that discussions on vaping’s costscould have greater impact. Both groups supported regulatory measuressuch as age-verification enforcement and stricter penalties for vendors,although some were sceptical of the proposed ban on disposable vapes,fearing it might increase their allure.RecommendationsFindings suggest that successful interventions will require a combinedapproach:Educational Interventions: Early, non-patronising education thatprovides clear, evidence-based information on vaping risks could helpdeter youth vaping. Emphasising present-day concerns, like cost, mayenhance engagement.Consistent Messaging: Clear, unified public health messaging aboutvaping risks is essential to counter the current confusion and mixedmessages young people receive.Enhanced Regulation: Stricter age-verification processes, plainpackaging, and targeted restrictions on vape marketing could helpreduce youth vaping appeal and accessibility.ConclusionYouth vaping has become a complex public health issue in NorthernEngland, where its normalisation is reinforced by attractive productdesigns and peer influence. Addressing this challenge will requiretailored educational and regulatory strategies, engaging both youth andadults to reshape vaping perceptions and limit access. By incorporatingthe insights of young people and significant adults, this researchhighlights some pathways for impactful, relevant interventions to mitigatethe growing public health impact of youth vaping

Electronic Cigarette Nicotine Flux, Nicotine Yield, and Particulate Matter Emissions: Impact of Device and Liquid Heterogeneity

Introduction: Electronic cigarettes (ECIGs) heat a nicotine-containing liquid to produce an inhalable aerosol. ECIG power (wattage) and liquid nicotine concentration are two factors that predict nicotine emission rate ( flux ). These factors can vary greatly across devices and users. Aims and Methods: The purpose of this study was to examine ECIG device and liquid heterogeneity in real world settings and the association with predicted nicotine flux, nicotine yield, and total particulate matter (TPM) emissions. Past 30-day ECIG users (n = 84; mean age = 23.8 years [SD = 9.6]) reported device and liquid characteristics. Device power was measured via multimeter, device display screens, or obtained via labeling. Liquid nicotine concentration was obtained via labeling or through chemical analysis. Predicted nicotine flux, nicotine yield, and TPM associated with 10 4-second puffs were calculated for participants\u27 primary devices. Results: Participants\u27 primary devices were box mods (42.9%), disposable vapes (20.2%), and pod mods (36.9%). Most participants (65.5%) reported not knowing their primary device wattage. Rebuildable/box mods had the greatest power range (11.1-120.0 W); pod mod power also varied considerably (4.1-21.7 W). Unlike device wattage, most participants (95.2%) reported knowing their liquid nicotine concentration, which ranged from 3.0 to 86.9 mg/ml (M = 36.0, SD = 29.3). Predicted nicotine flux varied greatly across products (range =12.0-160.1 μg/s, M = 85.6 μg/s, SD = 34.3). Box mods had the greatest variability in wattage and predicted nicotine flux, nicotine yield, and TPM yield. Conclusions: ECIG device and liquid heterogeneity influence nicotine and other toxicant emissions. Better measurement of ECIG device and liquid characteristics is needed to understand nicotine and toxicant emissions and to inform regulatory policy. Implications: ECIG device and liquid heterogeneity cause great variability in nicotine flux and toxicants emitted. These data demonstrate the need to examine device and liquid characteristics to develop empirically informed, health-promoting regulatory policies. Policies may include setting product standards such that ECIG products cannot (1) have nicotine fluxes much greater than that of a cigarette to decrease the risk of dependence, (2) have nicotine fluxes that are very low and thus would have minimal appeal to cigarette smokers and may serve as starter products for youth or nontobacco users, and (3) emit large amounts of particulate matter and other toxicants

Assessment of Electronic Cigarette User Terminology and Knowledge using Mixed Methods

Electronic cigarettes (ECIGs) have evolved rapidly over the past several years, and it is unclear if terminology used when assessing ECIG knowledge and use behavior has objective and well-understood definitions between consumers, as well as between consumers and the research community. The purpose of this study was to use semi-structured interviews to obtain a better understanding of ECIGs from the perspective of regular ECIG users. One-hour interviews consisted of both open- and closed-ended questions. Questions probed the terminology used by participants to describe both individual and combination device features, as well as ECIG use behaviors. Qualitative data was used to better inform the quantitative data collected using a concurrent triangulation design. Study results overall showed many similarities in terminology used by different device users; however, some differences were observed in terminology used to describe device types and characteristics among mod and pod users with users describing devices similar to their own in more detail (i.e., more mod users using ‘mod’ and ‘tank’ for the mod-style device and more pod users using ‘pod’ for the pod-style devices). Users were able to provide basic information about their own devices (i.e., brand name, refillable/disposable); however, questions about more details of their devices/liquids were difficult to answer, especially for pod users (i.e., nicotine type, power levels). This study provides evidence of a disconnect in terminology use among device users and a lack of knowledge of some device/liquid characteristics. This is important information as it may help improve ECIG education and regulation efforts and the topic should be further explored

Detection and quantification of synthetic cannabinoids in seven illicitly sourced disposable vapes submitted by an individual presenting to a UK drug and alcohol service

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: In the United Kingdom and internationally, synthetic cannabinoids (SCs) are a common adulterant in illicitly sourced vaping products. Recently, their use is increasingly being linked to severe health effects, particularly among children. Here, we aimed to conduct the first detection and quantification of SCs in illicit disposable vaping products. METHODS: A cross-section of seven illicitly sourced disposable vape samples that were initially sold as cannabis products was submitted for analysis by a single individual presenting to a drug and alcohol service in the United Kingdom. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of these samples were conducted using nuclear magnetic resonance and gas chromatography/electron ionization-mass spectrometry. RESULTS: Qualitative analysis identified the SC 5F-MDMB-PICA in all seven samples, in the absence of any other pharmacologically active compounds. Quantitative analysis revealed that the median concentration of 5F-MDMB-PICA was 0.85 mg/ml (range = 0.59-1.63). The external appearance of these vape samples closely resembled regulated vaping products, and the presence of SCs was not identifiable by any labelling or packaging. CONCLUSIONS: The SC 5F-MDMB-PICA was detected at a median concentration of 0.85 mg/ml in seven disposable vapes which were illegally sourced in the United Kingdom, were mis-sold as cannabis products and closely resembled legal, regulated products