Critical Challenges and Creative Solutions for Quantifying Nicotine Vaping: Qualitative Reports From Young Adults

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Behavioral Science
• Tobacco Control Research

Background:

• Young adults vaping nicotine report difficulties quantifying consumption in surveys.
• Existing survey methods may not align with how individuals self-monitor vaping behaviors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore young adults' perspectives on the challenges of measuring vaping quantity.
• To gather suggestions for improving scientific measurement of vaping behavior.

Main Methods:

• Semi-structured qualitative interviews with 62 young adults who vape.
• Thematic content analysis of participant responses to questions about understanding vaping quantity.

Main Results:

• Identified challenges in quantifying vaping due to survey question formats (e.g., puffs per day) and individual variations in self-monitoring.
• Participants suggested incorporating questions about device type and nicotine solution replenishment frequency for improved measurement.

Conclusions:

• Current vaping behavior surveys may inaccurately capture consumption due to discrepancies with self-monitoring practices.
• Future vaping measurement tools should consider device specifics and replenishment patterns to better reflect vapers' actual consumption.