Adolescents' perceptions of roll-your-own tobacco: A focus group study in Argentina

Roll-your-own (RYO) tobacco sales are increasing in Latin America, with the product widely available in Argentina. We are not aware of any research in Latin America exploring adolescents' perceptions of RYO tobacco, or any research exploring how adolescents view RYO packaging and accessories.

We conducted eight focus groups (n=51) in four cities in Argentina (Córdoba, Quilmes, San Salvador de Jujuy, Santa Rosa), with participants stratified by gender, age (13-14, 15-17) and smoking susceptibility (susceptible, non-susceptible). Participants were asked about RYO, RYO packaging and accessories.

Participants were aware of RYO tobacco. Many had seen hand-rolled cigarettes but often associated them with marijuana joints. RYO pack colours, materials, and descriptors influenced appeal and harm perceptions, as did flavours. Packs with descriptors such as 'natural' or 'additive-free' were considered more appealing and less harmful. Some believed, based on the packaging and from listening to relatives, that RYO was less harmful than factory-made cigarettes due to the absence of additives. The general view was that the act of rolling may reduce the urge to smoke, as it requires additional effort, but that this effect would likely diminish once people became accustomed to it. Some participants suggested that it would be easier to lose track of the amount smoked when using RYO. Accessories were seen as appealing and compared to candy.

Adolescents are familiar with RYO tobacco, with perceptions of harm and appeal influenced by packaging, flavour and social narratives. Like many adult RYO smokers, some participants viewed RYO as less harmful than factory-made cigarettes.