Patterns of Use of Smokeless Tobacco in US Adults, 2013-2014

To examine patterns of smokeless tobacco (SLT) use, by type, in wave 1 (2013-2014) of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study in the United States.

We analyzed data from 32 320 adults (aged ≥ 18 years) to assess the use of pouched snus and other SLT products (loose snus, moist snuff, dip, spit, and chewing tobacco).

Overall, SLT use was most common among men, younger adults, non-Hispanic Whites, and nonurban respondents. Pouched snus users were more likely to report nondaily and polytobacco use than users of other SLT products. Respondents who used SLT some days were more likely to be current established cigarette smokers than those who used SLT every day (57.9% vs 20.2%). Furthermore, current established smokers who used SLT some days were more likely to smoke every day and had a higher median number of cigarettes smoked per day than smokers who used SLT every day.

Polytobacco use, especially cigarette smoking, is common among SLT users. Pouched snus users are more likely to report nondaily snus use and polytobacco use than users of other SLT products.