"Taking Up a New Problem": Context and Determinants of Pod-Mod Electronic Cigarette Use Among College Students

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Behavioral Science
• Adolescent Health

Background:

• Electronic cigarettes (ECIGs), particularly pod-mod devices, have seen increased use among young adults.
• Understanding the specific factors driving ECIG adoption in the college environment is crucial for public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the context and determinants of pod-mod ECIG use among US college students aged 18-24.
• To identify reasons for initiation, perceived benefits, and perceived risks associated with ECIG use in this demographic.

Main Methods:

• Conducted semi-structured interviews with 55 college students (ages 18-24) across three US campuses.
• Employed thematic analysis to identify key themes related to ECIG use patterns and motivations.

Main Results:

• Key drivers include peer influence, increased campus prevalence, school-related stress, and appealing pod-mod features (convenience, design, flavors, concealment).
• Negative perceptions include addiction, cost, and potential health risks.
• Vaping is often viewed as a transient college behavior with intentions to quit after graduation.

Conclusions:

• The college environment significantly influences young adult ECIG use.
• Findings can inform targeted interventions to prevent and control ECIG uptake among college students.