Psychosocial Factors and Electronic Cigarette Use in the Military Population

Over 35.7% of military members report trying electronic cigarettes, and 11.1% report daily electronic cigarette use. In the general population, however, only 14.9% admit trying electronic cigarettes, and 3.2% report using electronic cigarettes daily. This is a major disparity.

The aim of this study was to identify, measure, and examine the association between psychosocial factors in military members using electronic cigarettes compared to tobacco cigarettes, dual use, and nonuse.

This cross-sectional, correlational study includes military members aged 18 years and older using the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and military-related questions. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics presented as percentages and frequencies. Pearson's chi-square tests were performed to examine association among variables.

There were 434 participants in this study, 369 (85%) men and 61 (14.1%) women. There were 419 (97%) of participants who felt stressed or depressed between 1 and 30 days each month. Participants with electronic cigarette use and dual use believed electronic cigarettes decreased their anxiety, helped them concentrate, and helped them eat less.

Dual use is concerning among the military population. Military members experiencing anxiety and trouble concentrating may be turning to nicotine products such as electronic cigarettes or dual use. Additional findings revealed several associated psychosocial factors including stress and depression were related to use. Future studies should focus on these psychosocial factors to reduce dual use in the military population.