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Ever users versus never users of a "less risky" cigarette
John R Hughes1, Josue P Keely, Peter W Callas
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05401-1419, USA. john.hughes@uvm.edu
Summary
Smokers perceive Eclipse, a reduced-risk cigarette, as safer for themselves and others. While many viewed it as a quitting aid, study results on quitting attempts were inconclusive.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Tobacco Control
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Reduced-risk tobacco products are marketed with claims of lower health risks.
- Understanding consumer perceptions of these products is crucial for public health strategies.
- Eclipse is a specific product advertised as a reduced-risk cigarette.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess perceptions of safety and quitting intentions among Eclipse users.
- To explore predictors of Eclipse use.
- To evaluate the impact of Eclipse use on smoking cessation attempts.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 173 Eclipse purchasers and 114 non-purchasers.
- Assessment of beliefs regarding personal and secondhand health risks.
- Follow-up at 6 months to track quit attempts.
Main Results:
- Most Eclipse users believed it was safer than low-tar/nicotine cigarettes for themselves (73%) and others (86%).
- Over half (53%) viewed Eclipse as a step toward quitting.
- No robust predictors of Eclipse use were identified.
- At 6 months, Eclipse users and nonusers had similar quit attempt rates.
Conclusions:
- The majority of Eclipse users perceive it as a safer alternative to traditional low-tar/nicotine cigarettes.
- Perceptions of reduced risk and quitting aid potential are prevalent among users.
- Further research is needed to determine if Eclipse use impacts smoking cessation efficacy.