E-cigarette use among adults in southern Iran: a qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Behavioral Science
• Tobacco Control

Background:

• E-cigarette use (vaping) continues among adults in Iran despite a national ban implemented in 2012.
• Limited qualitative research exists on the determinants of e-cigarette use in Iran.
• This study investigated the motivations and experiences of adult e-cigarette users in southern Iran.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the complex factors driving e-cigarette use among adults in Iran.
• To understand the individual, social, and cultural determinants of vaping.
• To provide evidence for targeted public health interventions.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative thematic analysis using Braun and Clarke's framework.
• Semi-structured interviews with 45 adult e-cigarette users (aged 19-52) in Bandar Abbas.
• Purposive and snowball sampling, with investigator triangulation and member checking for trustworthiness.

Main Results:

• Six key themes emerged: sensory appeal, emotional regulation, social normalization, perceived benefits/misconceptions, tobacco industry influence, and dependence.
• Social contexts and normalization were identified as the most significant factors.
• Participants reported diverse flavors, stress alleviation, peer influence, perceived harm reduction, and industry marketing as key drivers.

Conclusions:

• Adult e-cigarette use in Bandar Abbas is multifactorial, driven by sensory, emotional, social, and industry-related factors, alongside misconceptions about safety.
• Despite the ban, vaping persists due to dependence, peer influence, and lack of alternatives.
• Multi-level interventions are crucial, including public education, stricter industry regulation, and alternative coping strategies.