Clinical guidance for e-cigarette (vaping) cessation: Results from a modified Delphi panel approach

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Clinical Medicine
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Growing demand for healthcare practitioner support in e-cigarette cessation.
• Limited empirical evidence and weak existing data on effective vaping cessation methods.
• Need for a structured clinical resource to guide healthcare providers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and reach consensus on clinical recommendations for e-cigarette cessation.
• To create an expert-informed resource for practitioners assisting clients in quitting vaping.
• To contextualize cessation strategies for specific vulnerable populations.

Main Methods:

• Modified Delphi process involving 28 Expert and Peer Panel members (September-December 2021).
• Three rounds of structured surveys, discussion board, and intermediate survey to achieve consensus.
• Usability testing of knowledge products followed by finalization based on user feedback.

Main Results:

• Consensus reached on 24 recommendations and 2 statements across eight domains (e.g., severity, treatment, harm reduction, relapse prevention).
• Recommendations contextualized for adults, youth, pregnant/breastfeeding individuals, and those with mental illness/substance use issues.
• Inclusion of two 'no agreement' statements and finalized guidance based on user feedback.

Conclusions:

• The developed resource provides general clinical guidance for healthcare practitioners on e-cigarette cessation.
• Addresses a critical gap in evidence-based practices for vaping cessation support.
• Aims to enhance treatment planning and patient outcomes for individuals seeking to quit vaping.