Perceptions towards electronic cigarettes for smoking cessation among Stop Smoking Service users



Sherratt, Frances C ORCID: 0000-0003-4147-9305, Newson, Lisa, Marcus, Michael W, Field, John K ORCID: 0000-0003-3951-6365 and Robinson, Jude ORCID: 0000-0001-5491-4893
(2016) Perceptions towards electronic cigarettes for smoking cessation among Stop Smoking Service users. BRITISH JOURNAL OF HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY, 21 (2). pp. 421-433.

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Abstract

<h4>Objectives</h4>Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are promoted as smoking cessation tools, yet they remain unavailable from Stop Smoking Services in England; the debate over their safety and efficacy is ongoing. This study was designed to explore perceptions and reasons for use or non-use of electronic cigarettes as smoking cessation tools, among individuals engaged in Stop Smoking Services.<h4>Methods</h4>Semi-structured telephone interviews were undertaken with twenty participants engaged in Stop Smoking Services in the north-west of England. Participants comprised of both individuals who had tried e-cigarettes (n = 6) and those who had not (n = 14). Interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. The transcripts were subject to thematic analysis, which explored participants' beliefs and experiences of e-cigarettes.<h4>Results</h4>A thematic analysis of transcripts suggested that the following three superordinate themes were prominent: (1) self-efficacy and beliefs in e-cigarettes; (2) e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid; and (3) cues for e-cigarette use. Participants, particularly never users, were especially concerned regarding e-cigarette efficacy and safety. Overall, participants largely expressed uncertainty regarding e-cigarette safety and efficacy, with some evidence of misunderstanding.<h4>Conclusions</h4>Evidence of uncertainty and misunderstanding regarding information on e-cigarettes highlights the importance of providing smokers with concise, up-to-date information regarding e-cigarettes, enabling smokers to make informed treatment decisions. Furthermore, identification of potential predictors of e-cigarette use can be used to inform Stop Smoking Services provision and future research.<h4>Statement of contribution</h4>What is already known on this subject? Research suggests that e-cigarettes may help smokers quit smoking, but further studies are needed. Electronic cigarette use in Stop Smoking Services has increased substantially in recent years, although e-cigarettes are currently not regulated. There is debate within the academic community regarding e-cigarette efficacy and safety. What does this study add? Service users interviewed in the current study felt uncertain regarding e-cigarette efficacy and safety. E-cigarette ever users viewed e-cigarettes as effective and safe, more often than never users. Accurate and up-to-date education will enable service users to make informed treatment decisions.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: smoking, smokers, electronic cigarettes, e-cigarettes, beliefs, perceptions, service users
Subjects: ?? H1 ??
Depositing User: Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited: 03 Feb 2016 14:01
Last Modified: 27 Dec 2022 04:03
DOI: 10.1111/bjhp.12177
Related URLs:
URI: https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/2049919

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