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Galimov A, Kirkpatrick MG, Vassey J, Galstyan E, Smith A, Allem JP, Unger JB. Oral Nicotine Gum Discussions on Twitter: Content Analysis. Nicotine Tob Res 2024; 26:503-507. [PMID: 37791822 PMCID: PMC10959151 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntad190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral nicotine gum such as LUCY, which comes in colorful packaging, mimicking traditional chewing gum, is becoming popular. Many brands of gum have not been approved by the FDA for smoking cessation. This study examined public discourse about, including sentiment toward, oral nicotine gum on Twitter. METHODS We used Twitter's Streaming Application Programming Interface to collect data from January 1, 2021, to December 21, 2021, using "nicotine gum" and/or "#nicotinegum" search terms (N = 19 171 unique tweets were collected). We used an inductive approach to become familiar with the data, generated a codebook, and conducted a content analysis on (n = 2152) tweets. RESULTS Cessation (n = 716, 33.3%), personal experience (n = 370, 17.2%), and addiction to gum (n = 135, 6.3%) were the most prevalent themes. Cessation tweets primarily discussed cigarette smoking cessation (n = 418, 58.4% of cessation tweets) and successful cessation experiences (n = 155, 21.6%). Other identified themes pertained to using nicotine gum for cognitive enhancement or catching a "buzz" (n = 102, 4.7%), marketing (n = 98, 4.6%), using nicotine gum with other substances (n = 90, 4.2%), and adverse effects (n = 63, 2.9%). Sentiment analysis results revealed that 675 (44.2%) tweets were categorized as neutral, 605 (39.6%) tweets were classified as positive, and 248 tweets (16.2%) were negative. CONCLUSIONS About one-third of tweets in our corpus mentioned nicotine gum in the context of smoking cessation. Most nicotine gum-related posts conveyed positive and neutral sentiments. Future studies should consider adding novel nicotine gum-specific search terms as well as exploring other social media platforms to gain more insights about these products. IMPLICATIONS Our findings suggest that Twitter has the potential to track and facilitate conversations between those seeking cigarette cessation advice and those who have successfully quit tobacco by using nicotine gum. Monitoring of promotional content from nicotine gum companies is needed to ensure these products are not appealing to youth and nonusers of tobacco.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artur Galimov
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science, Institute for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Research, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Matthew G Kirkpatrick
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science, Institute for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Research, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Julia Vassey
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science, Institute for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Research, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ellen Galstyan
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science, Institute for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Research, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ashley Smith
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science, Institute for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Research, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jon-Patrick Allem
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science, Institute for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Research, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jennifer B Unger
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science, Institute for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Research, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Keller-Hamilton B, Alalwan MA, Curran H, Hinton A, Long L, Chrzan K, Wagener TL, Atkinson L, Suraapaneni S, Mays D. Evaluating the effects of nicotine concentration on the appeal and nicotine delivery of oral nicotine pouches among rural and Appalachian adults who smoke cigarettes: A randomized cross-over study. Addiction 2024; 119:464-475. [PMID: 37964431 PMCID: PMC10872395 DOI: 10.1111/add.16355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Oral nicotine pouches (ONPs) probably offer reduced harm compared with cigarettes, but independent data concerning their misuse liability are lacking. We compared nicotine delivery and craving relief from ONPs with different nicotine concentrations to cigarettes. DESIGN This was a single-blind, three-visit (≥ 48-hour washout), randomized-cross-over study. Participants were encouraged to complete all study visits in less than 1 month. SETTING The study took place in Rural/Appalachian Ohio. PARTICIPANTS Participants comprised 30 adults who smoke cigarettes. Participants (meanage = 34.5) were 60% men and 90% White. INTERVENTION Participants who were ≥ 12-hour tobacco-abstinent used: (1) a 3-mg nicotine concentration ONP, (2) a 6-mg nicotine concentration ONP and (3) usual brand cigarette in separate visits. ONPs (wintergreen Zyn) were used for 30 minutes; cigarettes were puffed every 30 sec for 5 minutes. MEASUREMENTS Plasma nicotine and self-reported craving were assessed at t = 0, 5, 15, 30, 60 and 90 minutes. The primary outcome was plasma nicotine concentration at t = 30 minutes. A secondary outcome was craving relief at t = 5 minutes. FINDINGS At t = 30, mean [95% confidence interval (CI)] plasma nicotine was 9.5 ng/ml (95% CI = 7.1, 11.9 ng/ml) for the 3 mg nicotine ONP, 17.5 ng/ml (95% CI = 13.7, 21.3) for the 6 mg nicotine ONP and 11.4 ng/ml (95% CI = 9.2, 13.6 ng/ml) for the cigarette. Mean plasma nicotine at t = 30 minutes differed between the 3- and 6-mg nicotine ONPs (P = 0.001) and between the 6-mg nicotine ONP and cigarette (P = 0.002). Mean (95% CI) craving at t = 5 minutes was lower for the cigarette (mean = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.61, 1.39) than either the 3 mg (mean = 2.25, 95% CI = 1.68, 2.82; P < 0.0001) or 6 mg nicotine (mean = 2.19, 95% CI = 1.60, 2.79; P < 0.0001) ONP. CONCLUSIONS Among adult smokers, using 6-mg nicotine concentration oral nicotine pouches (ONPs) was associated with greater plasma nicotine delivery at 30 minutes than 3-mg ONPs or cigarettes, but neither ONP relieved craving symptoms at 5 minutes as strongly as a cigarette. Accelerating the speed of nicotine delivery in ONPs might increase their misuse liability relative to cigarettes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittney Keller-Hamilton
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
- Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Mahmood A. Alalwan
- Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Hayley Curran
- Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Alice Hinton
- Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- The Ohio State University College of Public Health, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Lauren Long
- Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Kirsten Chrzan
- Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- The Ohio State University College of Public Health, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Theodore L. Wagener
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
- Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Leanne Atkinson
- Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- The Ohio State University College of Public Health, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Sriya Suraapaneni
- Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- The Ohio State University College of Arts and Sciences, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Darren Mays
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
- Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH, USA
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Silver N, Kucherlapaty P, Kierstead E, Schillo B. Objective Characteristics and Subjective Responses of 18-24-Year-Olds to U.S. nationally Televised Tobacco Advertisements. Subst Use Misuse 2024; 59:1115-1125. [PMID: 38409656 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2024.2320394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Background: Restrictions on televised tobacco ads do not apply to vaping and oral nicotine products. Several campaigns are currently active on U.S. national television. This research examines the extent to which objective ad features are associated with ad, brand, and product appeal and use intentions among 18-24-year-olds. Methods: We identified seven unique campaigns for Vuse, Velo, and JUUL from the Mintel Comperemedia database, coded for youth-appealing content, and then randomly assigned among N = 1450 18-24-year-olds. Following exposure to one 15-second ad, participants completed a survey assessing their subjective responses. Results: Youth-appealing content was prevalent across these ads to varying degrees. Mixed effects regression analyses showed a positive association between features from the Content Appealing to Youth (CAY) index and pro-social brand perceptions, positive attitudes, reactions, and perceived effectiveness of the ad, and positive use perceptions. Moreover, themes related to customization of the device and environmental sustainability were associated with similar positive perceptions, including that using the product would be cool, as well as behavioral intentions to try, use occasionally, and use daily. Conclusions: Regulators need to update tobacco advertising restrictions to accurately reflect the current tobacco product landscape. This study contributes to the research on tobacco promotion strategies by examining the current marketing landscape for newer tobacco products and their appeal to youth. Findings from this study inform comprehensive tobacco marketing regulations, recommending the FDA update its guidelines and apply current marketing restrictions to e-cigarettes and oral nicotine products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Silver
- Truth Initiative Schroeder Institute, Washington, DC, USA
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Duan Z, Henriksen L, Vallone D, Rath JM, Evans WD, Romm KF, Wysota C, Berg CJ. Nicotine pouch marketing strategies in the USA: an analysis of Zyn, On! and Velo. Tob Control 2024; 33:154-163. [PMID: 35817549 DOI: 10.1136/tc-2022-057360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Nicotine pouches are gaining popularity, yet their marketing is understudied. METHODS Using Numerator advertising data from January 2019 to September 2021 regarding three popular brands of nicotine pouch in the USA-Zyn (by Swedish Match, introduced in the USA in July 2016), On! (Altria, August 2016) and Velo (RJ Reynolds, July 2019)-we examined (1) general advertising characteristics (eg, media type, year); (2) ad content (ie, headlines and imagery themes); (3) prominent media channels (ie, specific websites, magazines, etc); and (4) ad expenditures. RESULTS There were 286 unique ads (Zyn: 44.4%; On!: 2.8%; Velo: 52.8%), 119 143 occurrences (Zyn: 3.5%; On!: 0.5%; Velo: 96.0%) and $24 774 650 total expenditures (Zyn: 4.7%; On!: 0.6%; Velo: 94.7%). The greatest proportion of ad occurrences and expenditures were accounted for by radio (75.9% and 28.2%, respectively) and television (16.2% and 56.5%), followed by mobile (0.5% and 7.2%) and online display (6.7% and 3.6%). Across ad occurrences and expenditures, prominent headline themes included 'freedom' (26.0% and 17.1%, respectively), 'brand' (9.6% and 18.6%) and 'flavour' (16.4% and 7.6%); images mainly featured the product alone (61.4% and 56.1%), text (16.2% and 24.6%) or men (8.7% and 8.6%); and prominent channel themes were entertainment (34.7% and 37.3%), news/weather (14.3% and 21.7%), business/finance (12.9% and 9.0%) and sports (9.5% and 1.0%). Zyn and On! prioritised online display and print; Velo prioritised radio and television. Zyn's and Velo's headlines focused on 'freedom', with Zyn also emphasising 'brand' and Velo 'innovation'; On!'s headlines emphasised 'flavour'. CONCLUSIONS Regulatory efforts must be informed by surveillance of nicotine pouch marketing and impacts on consumer subgroups (eg, young people).
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongshuan Duan
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, The George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Lisa Henriksen
- Stanford Prevention Research Center, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Donna Vallone
- Truth Initiative Schroeder Institute, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jessica M Rath
- Truth Initiative Schroeder Institute, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - W Douglas Evans
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, The George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Department of Global Health, The George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Katelyn F Romm
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, The George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Christina Wysota
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, The George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Carla J Berg
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, The George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Department of Global Health, The George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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Clark SA, Baler G, Jarman KL, Byron MJ, Goldstein AO, Ranney LM. Qualitative perspective on nicotine pouches from adults who smoke cigarettes in North Carolina. Tob Control 2024:tc-2023-058334. [PMID: 38307719 DOI: 10.1136/tc-2023-058334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about how nicotine pouch products are perceived by people who smoke, including if they are perceived as a cessation aid or a substitute for when they cannot smoke. We qualitatively investigated the reactions and perceptions about On!, a leading brand of nicotine pouches. METHODS We conducted online semistructured interviews with 30 adults who smoke cigarettes. Participants viewed an On! brochure and an image of an opened nicotine pouch and were asked about their initial impression, who the intended user is, and how they thought of the product's safety compared with other tobacco and cessation products. Transcripts were independently coded and the data were analysed using thematic content analysis. RESULTS Among the participants, half identified as female and slightly more than half were white (n=16). The mean age was 43 years old. The following are the central themes that emerged: (1) participants perceived the concealability, flavours and packaging of On! as appealing to youth and young adults; (2) participants perceived nicotine pouches as a product that would supplement rather than replace tobacco use; and (3) the product raised health concerns, which decreased interest in trying nicotine pouches. CONCLUSIONS Participants believed that the On! nicotine pouch promotional material may promote youth and young adult nicotine product initiation and dual product use for people who smoke. Most viewed On! as a product to use with cigarettes, rather than a way to quit cigarettes. Increased surveillance of nicotine pouches is warranted to monitor the trajectory of this emerging tobacco product and prevent youth initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia A Clark
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Guido Baler
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kristen L Jarman
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - M Justin Byron
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Adam O Goldstein
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Leah M Ranney
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Henderson KC, Kute NG, Popova L, Ashley DL, Spears CA, Churchill V, Weaver SR, Pechacek TF, Huang J. Content analysis of IQOS direct mail and email marketing in the US. Prev Med Rep 2024; 38:102634. [PMID: 38375169 PMCID: PMC10874834 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2024.102634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Novel nicotine and tobacco products, including heated tobacco products (HTPs) like IQOS, are growing in global popularity. IQOS was the first HTP authorized for sale by the US Food and Drug Administration, entering the US market in 2019 and being removed in 2021 due to patent-related legal challenges, with the possibility of returning in 2024. Direct marketing is one method tobacco companies use to reach consumers of these products. The purpose of this study was to investigate the content of US IQOS direct mail and email marketing. Methods Direct marketing items were collected between September 2019 and July 2021 by seven team members in the first US IQOS test market, Atlanta, Georgia. Results Overall, 101 marketing items were collected, 59 of which were unique. Among the unique items that showed images of persons ("models"), 70 % showed models appearing to be from racial/ethnic minoritized groups, 86.8 % showed at least one female-presenting model, and 37.5 % showed models appearing to be young adults (18-29 years). Items often had an embedded link/URL (91.5 %) and mentioned topics such as online services (54.2 %; for example, online ordering and tutorials), user experience (49.2 %), social media (44.1 %), and purchasing locations (37.3 %). When examined for their main purpose, items focused on subjects such as store experience (37.7 %), product introduction (18.6 %), and product use (15.3 %). Conclusions Our study highlights the importance of better understanding how novel tobacco products are marketed, which can inform policymakers' regulatory efforts and product authorization decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nikita G Kute
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lucy Popova
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - David L Ashley
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Claire A Spears
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Victoria Churchill
- Cancer Health Equity Institute, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Scott R Weaver
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Terry F Pechacek
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jidong Huang
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Levy DT, Warner KE, Liber AC, Travis N, Sweanor DT, Meza R, Cummings KM. Potential Implications for Tobacco Industry Transformation of the Acquisition of Swedish Match by Philip Morris International. Nicotine Tob Res 2023; 25:1899-1903. [PMID: 37535864 PMCID: PMC10664079 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntad138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Philip Morris International's recent purchase of Swedish Match may prove to be a vital tobacco industry development. We focus on PMIs potential progress in moving from primarily selling cigarettes toward primarily selling noncombustible nicotine delivery products (NCNDPs). We also consider the potential contribution of the acquisition to industry transformation whereby other cigarette firms may potentially move toward primarily selling NCNDPs. We examine the potential impact on noncombustible nicotine delivery product use, including nicotine pouches (a major Swedish Match product), e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and, most importantly, on sales of the industry's staple, combustible cigarettes. We focus on the United States as a special case, where PMI is limited from entering the cigarette market. Implications: Philip Morris International's purchase of Swedish Match and policies regarding nicotine pouches (NPs) have been overlooked in the tobacco control literature. The acquisition indicates the importance of the NP market to the largest nonstate-owned tobacco company. The acquisition has the potential through pricing and marketing tactics to either encourage or discourage the use of NPs, e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and most importantly cigarettes. Due to its inability to sell cigarettes in the United States, PMI will have incentives to use its alternative nicotine delivery products, including its newly acquired NPs, to reduce the sale of cigarettes by other companies. However, the potential effects in other countries, where PMI does sell cigarettes, are less clear. Monitoring and analyzing tobacco company acquisitions is essential to studying future transitions in using different kinds of tobacco products, especially from cigarettes to lower-risk alternative nicotine delivery products.
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Affiliation(s)
- David T Levy
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Kenneth E Warner
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Alex C Liber
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Nargiz Travis
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - David T Sweanor
- Centre for Health Law, Policy & Ethics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Rafael Meza
- Department of Integrative Oncology, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada
| | - K Michael Cummings
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
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Emery SL, Binns S, Carter CC, Rose SW, Kostygina G. Characterising advertising strategies and expenditures for conventional and newer smokeless tobacco products. Tob Control 2023; 32:795-798. [PMID: 35803674 PMCID: PMC9942710 DOI: 10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2022-057282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Nicotine pouch products are an emerging and rapidly growing smokeless tobacco (ST) category in the USA. Little is known about the promotional strategies and media channels used to advertise this ST category or the extent to which the marketing strategies differ from strategies used to promote 'conventional' smokeless products (eg, snuff). We describe the nature, timing of and expenditures related to conventional, snus and newer ST product advertising on print, broadcast and internet media. METHODS Advertising expenditures were collected using Kantar Media's 'Stradegy' tool, which provides advertising data including dollars spent promoting specific products across various media channels, including print magazines and newspapers, broadcast television and radio, outdoor posters and billboards, and internet. We identified 306 smokeless products within Kantar database and collected ad expenditures retrospectively for January 2018-April 2020. Promotional expenditures were aggregated by product category, by month and by designated market area (DMA). RESULTS Kantar data analysis returned 28 conventional ST, 22 oral nicotine and 3 snus products (53 total) advertised during the period of observation, with over $71 million spent collectively on ST promotion. Across categories, more advertising dollars were spent on conventional ST products (63%) than newer oral nicotine products (25%) or snus (12%). However, during the later 9-month period from August 2019 to April 2020, oral nicotine products accounted for the majority of monthly ad spending. Most ad spending was placed in the national market ($66.5 million), with Atlanta ($1.1 million), Houston ($1 million) and Las Vegas ($0.8 million) as the top three local DMAs for expenditures. DISCUSSION Advertising expenditures for nicotine pouches have recently exceeded conventional ST product advertising and nicotine pouches are being promoted nationally. Marketing surveillance as well as understanding consumer appeal, perceptions and consumption are critical next steps in tracking potential uptake of these new products.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Shyanika W Rose
- Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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Long L, Alalwan MA, Keller-Hamilton B, Patterson JG, Roberts ME, Wagener TL, Atkinson L, Suraapaneni S, Mays D. Perceptions of oral nicotine pouches & their marketing among Ohio Appalachia smokers and smokeless tobacco users. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293597. [PMID: 37903103 PMCID: PMC10615305 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral nicotine pouches (ONPs) are novel products, gaining popularity and marketed as "tobacco-free" alternatives to cigarettes and smokeless tobacco (SLT), but their public health impact is unknown. This study qualitatively examined ONP appeal and perceptions among cigarette smokers and SLT users from Ohio Appalachia. METHODS In 2022, we conducted 10 virtual focus groups with smokers (n = 19) and smokeless tobacco users (n = 18) from Appalachia Ohio aged ≥21 to examine perceptions of risks and benefits, substitutability for cigarettes and SLT, and ONP marketing. We transcribed focus groups verbatim, thematically coded transcripts, and analyzed coded data for prominent themes. RESULTS Participants perceived ONPs to have similar or less risk than cigarettes/SLT but prominently discussed gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risks. Addiction risk was thought to be comparable to cigarettes/SLT, citing "nicotine is nicotine." Participants viewed ONPs to be situational rather than complete substitutes for cigarettes/SLT, viewing them as "cleaner," more socially acceptable, and discrete. Despite appealing features of ONP marketing, participants surmised ads would appeal to youth, new users, tobacco users seeking to cut down/quit, or to "high class," "white-collar" demographics. CONCLUSIONS Participants' perceptions of ONPs and their marketing suggest ONPs are more likely to be used as situational versus complete substitutes for cigarettes and SLT. While situational substitution could exacerbate disparities in Appalachia by facilitating more frequent tobacco/nicotine use, complete substitution could reduce disparities. Research is needed to understand how perceptions, the appeal of ONP marketing, and novel product features translate to patterns of use to understand ONPs' potential impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Long
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Mahmood A. Alalwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Brittney Keller-Hamilton
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Joanne G. Patterson
- Division of Health Behavior and Health Promotion, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Megan E. Roberts
- Division of Health Behavior and Health Promotion, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Theodore L. Wagener
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Leanne Atkinson
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Sriya Suraapaneni
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Darren Mays
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, Ohio, United States of America
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10
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Kramer RD, Park-Lee E, Marynak KL, Jones JT, Sawdey MD, Cullen KA. Nicotine Pouch Awareness and Use Among Youth, National Youth Tobacco Survey, 2021. Nicotine Tob Res 2023; 25:1610-1613. [PMID: 37279928 PMCID: PMC10961705 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntad080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This manuscript examines prevalence of awareness and use of nicotine pouches among U.S. middle and high school students by sociodemographic characteristics and other tobacco product use and characterizes nicotine pouch and other tobacco product use behaviors among current nicotine pouch users. AIMS AND METHODS Data are from the 2021 National Tobacco Youth Survey, a cross-sectional, school-based survey of middle and high school students (N = 20 413; overall response rate: 44.6%), which included questions on nicotine pouches in 2021 for the first time. Prevalence estimates, 95% confidence intervals, and estimated population counts were assessed for nicotine pouch awareness, ever use, and current (past 30 days) use, and for use behaviors related to nicotine pouches (frequency of use, flavor(s) used) and other tobacco products (ever, current, frequency of use) among current nicotine pouch users. RESULTS Over one-third of students (35.5%) had ever heard of nicotine pouches. An estimated 1.9% (490 000) reported ever using them, while 0.8% (200 000) reported current use. Among current nicotine pouch users, 61.6% reported flavored nicotine pouch use, 64.2% reported current e-cigarette use, and 52.6% used multiple (≥2) tobacco products. Current use of nicotine pouches was common among current smokeless tobacco users (41.3%). CONCLUSIONS Overall, in 2021, while relatively few students had ever tried nicotine pouches or currently used them, more than one-third had heard of them. Current nicotine pouch users tended to use other tobacco products, particularly e-cigarettes and smokeless tobacco. Given previous rapid increases in youth uptake of e-cigarettes, it is important to continue monitoring nicotine pouch use among young people. IMPLICATIONS This study's findings provide an important baseline for future monitoring of nicotine pouch awareness and use among middle and high school students. Emerging tobacco products, particularly those that are flavored, widely available, discreet, and inexpensive have the potential to attract youth. Given the potential of these products to appeal to young people, ongoing monitoring of nicotine pouch use behaviors is important to inform public health and regulatory efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee D. Kramer
- Division of Population Health Science, Office of Science, Center for Tobacco Products, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Eunice Park-Lee
- Division of Population Health Science, Office of Science, Center for Tobacco Products, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Kristy L. Marynak
- Office on Smoking and Health, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jamal T. Jones
- Division of Population Health Science, Office of Science, Center for Tobacco Products, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Michael D. Sawdey
- Division of Population Health Science, Office of Science, Center for Tobacco Products, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Karen A. Cullen
- Division of Population Health Science, Office of Science, Center for Tobacco Products, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
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11
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Heinly A, Walley S. The nicotine and tobacco epidemic among adolescents: new products are addicting our youth. Curr Opin Pediatr 2023; 35:513-521. [PMID: 37335268 DOI: 10.1097/mop.0000000000001271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW New nicotine and tobacco products such as electronic cigarettes and oral nicotine products have increased in use and threaten to addict a new generation of youth. This review summarizes current literature on nicotine and tobacco products used by youth, epidemiology, health effects, prevention and treatment of nicotine dependence, and current policies and regulations. RECENT FINDINGS Electronic cigarettes and oral nicotine products are popular among youth, attracting adolescents through exposure to deceptive marketing and fruit, candy and dessert flavors. Electronic cigarettes and oral nicotine product use can lead to nicotine addiction and is associated with respiratory, cardiovascular, and oral health problems, although long-term health effects are not fully known. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authority to regulate nicotine and tobacco products; however, thousands of unregulated and unauthorized products remain on the market. SUMMARY Millions of adolescents continue to use nicotine and tobacco products, which puts them at risk for health problems, including nicotine addiction. Pediatric providers can provide prevention messages, screen youth for tobacco and nicotine use, and offer appropriate treatment options. Regulation of tobacco and nicotine products by the FDA is critical to reverse this public health epidemic of youth nicotine and tobacco use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Heinly
- Hasbro Children's Hospital and Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Susan Walley
- Children's National Hospital and George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
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12
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Patel M, Kierstead EC, Kreslake J, Schillo BA. Patterns of oral nicotine pouch use among U.S. adolescents and young adults. Prev Med Rep 2023; 34:102239. [PMID: 37228836 PMCID: PMC10203764 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Oral nicotine pouches are gaining popularity, yet national-level research on youth and young adult use is still needed. We examined characteristics of those who use oral nicotine pouches and trends in use over time in a sample of U.S. youth and young adults. Data were obtained from a weekly, national, online, continuous tracking survey of approximately 315 unique participants (aged 15-24) per week. Bivariate analyses were conducted on those surveyed December 2021 to May 2022 (n = 7,832) summarizing demographic and tobacco product use characteristics of those currently using oral nicotine pouches, those who had ever used oral nicotine pouches, but not currently, and those who never used pouches. From December 2021 to May 2022, 16% of participants ever used nicotine pouches and 12% currently used the product. Participants who currently used oral nicotine pouches were more likely to report being aged 21+, male, and lower income. Seventy-three percent of those who currently used pouches and 33% of those who ever, but not currently, used pouches reported current cigarette smoking. Results suggest that many young people who smoke cigarettes are concurrently using oral nicotine pouches. We also examined current and ever use in respondents surveyed between September 2020 and May 2022 to assess trends over the two-year period (n = 25,944) and findings indicate stable oral nicotine product use rates over time among adolescents and young adults. Appropriate regulation is needed so nicotine naïve individuals do not initiate use and those currently using tobacco do not use oral nicotine pouches concurrently with other products.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elexis C. Kierstead
- Corresponding author at: Truth Initiative Schroeder Institute, 900 G St. NW, Washington, DC 20006, USA
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13
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Talbot EM, Giovenco DP, Grana R, Hrywna M, Ganz O. Cross-promotion of nicotine pouches by leading cigarette brands. Tob Control 2023; 32:528-529. [PMID: 34670870 PMCID: PMC9018875 DOI: 10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2021-056899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eugene M Talbot
- Center for Tobacco Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
| | - Daniel P Giovenco
- Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Rachel Grana
- National Cancer Institute, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Mary Hrywna
- Center for Tobacco Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Health Behavior, Society and Policy, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Ollie Ganz
- Center for Tobacco Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA
- Department of Health Behavior, Society and Policy, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
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14
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Tosakoon S, Romm KF, Berg CJ. Nicotine pouch awareness, use and perceptions among young adults from six metropolitan statistical areas in the United States. Tob Prev Cessat 2023; 9:19. [PMID: 37293565 PMCID: PMC10246475 DOI: 10.18332/tpc/163243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Nicotine pouches, which emerged in the US in 2016 and are marketed as 'tobacco-free', may appeal to young adults. This study examined young adults' nicotine pouch awareness, use, use intentions, and related factors. METHODS We analyzed Spring 2022 survey data from 942 young adults recruited via social media from six US cities (mean age=27.61 years, 34.3% men, 33.1% racial/ethnic minority) to characterize nicotine pouch awareness, ever use, use intentions, exposure, and perceptions. RESULTS Nicotine pouch awareness and ever use were reported by 34.6% and 9.8%, respectively. Males (AOR=1.79; 95% CI: 1.33-2.38), non-White participants (vs White; AOR=1.64; 95% CI: 1.04-2.61), and those using cigarettes (AOR=2.67; 95% CI: 1.63-4.38), e-cigarettes (AOR=2.28; 95% CI: 1.57-3.31), and smokeless tobacco (SLT) (AOR=14.46; 95% CI: 1.81-115.61) had greater odds of awareness. Among those aware of nicotine pouches, males (AOR=2.27; 95% CI: 1.33-3.85), White participants (vs Asian; AOR=0.40; 95% CI: 0.17-0.94), and SLT users (AOR=4.90; 95% CI: 1.26-18.98) had greater odds of ever use; being male (B=0.39; 95% CI: -0.67 - -0.12) and using SLT (B=1.73; 95% CI: 1.10-2.36) predicted greater use intentions. Overall, 31.4% reported past-month advertising exposure, most often via tobacco retailers (67.3%). Ever users most commonly purchased them at gas stations (46.7%). The most frequently reported use motives were to quit combusted tobacco (16.8%) and reduce tobacco smell (15.4%). Nicotine pouches were perceived as less harmful and less addictive than cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and SLT, and more socially acceptable than cigarettes and SLT. CONCLUSIONS Young adults were exposed to advertising, accessed nicotine pouches via various sources, and perceived these products favorably. Marketing and use surveillance is needed to monitor their impact on those likely to use them (e.g. males, SLT users).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sararat Tosakoon
- Department of Global Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, United States
| | - Katelyn F. Romm
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, United States
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, United States
| | - Carla J. Berg
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, United States
- George Washington Cancer Center, George Washington University, Washington, United States
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15
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Katz SJ, Petersen A, Cohen E, Hatsukami D. Tobacco Free Nicotine Vaping Products: A Study of Health Halo Effects Among Middle School Youth. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2023; 28:391-400. [PMID: 37340942 PMCID: PMC10287042 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2023.2217431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
Health halo effects are a form of biased processing, wherein a particular product claim bleeds over to other categories of analysis or to an overall healthier impression. This study tests whether the term tobacco-free nicotine triggers a health halo effect. Through an experiment with middle school youth (n = 599), we vary the flavor (tobacco vs. fruit) and nicotine source information (nicotine/tobacco-free nicotine/nicotine from tobacco) on the warning label of the vaping product participants viewed. We evaluate product measures (nicotine content beliefs, nicotine source beliefs, and risk perceptions) and comparative nicotine source misperceptions (addictiveness, safety, and risk). Findings show that the term tobacco-free nicotine triggers inaccurate nicotine content beliefs, nicotine source beliefs, and misperceptions associated with addictiveness, safety, and risk. We conclude with theoretical and regulatory implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherri Jean Katz
- Hubbard School of Journalism and Mass Communication, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
| | - Ashley Petersen
- Division of Biostatistics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
| | - Elisia Cohen
- Hubbard School of Journalism and Mass Communication, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
| | - Dorothy Hatsukami
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
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16
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Gaiha SM, Lin C, Lempert LK, Halpern-Felsher B. Use, marketing, and appeal of oral nicotine products among adolescents, young adults, and adults. Addict Behav 2023; 140:107632. [PMID: 36731224 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2023.107632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Oral nicotine products such as pouches, lozenges, tablets, gums, and toothpicks are gaining popularity, especially among adolescents and young adults, with increased marketing. OBJECTIVE To estimate use patterns of oral nicotine products and likelihood of buying and liking products based on marketing, using a large group of adolescents, young adults, and adults. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A cross-sectional, online survey among U.S. participants (n = 6,131; ages 13-40 years) was conducted in November-December 2021. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Ever, past-30-day, and past-7-day use, behaviors, and flavors of oral nicotine products. Liking marketing and likelihood of buying specific oral nicotine products (Zyn pouches and Lucy gum) from marketing. RESULTS Our sample included 2,025 (33.0%) ever-users, 1,191 (19.4%) past-30-day users, and 998 (16.3%) past-7-day users of any oral nicotine product. Use patterns by age (in years): ever-users (<21: 816 (22.3%); 21-40: 1,209 (48.9%)); past-30-day users (<21: 458 (12.5%); 21-40: 733 (29.7%)); and past-7-day users (<21: 383 (10.5%); 21-40: 615 (24.9%)). Across products, 10-18% of participants reported using nicotine strength ranging from 6-10 mg. Fruit, sweet/dessert, alcohol, coffee, and mint were the most used flavors. When shown marketing, ever-users liked and were likely to buy Zyn pouches compared to never users, and participants under 21 years felt equally targeted by Lucy and Zyn marketing. Liking Zyn marketing even a little bit compared to not at all increased the likelihood of buying Zyn pouches across age groups. After observing marketing, participants < 21 years were more likely to buy Zyn if they perceived marketing to contain messages about good tasting flavors (AOR 1.43, 1.09-1.87; 0.009) and helping to feel comfortable in social situations (AOR 1.38, 1.02-1.87; 0.033), and were more likely to buy Lucy if they felt it could be used anywhere (AOR 1.57, 1.05-2.33; 0.026). CONCLUSIONS This study provides a foundation for estimating use, behaviors, flavors, and marketing influence of oral nicotine products in the US and globally. Adolescent and young adult use of oral nicotine products and likelihood of buying products when exposed to marketing highlights the need for expanded tobacco use surveillance, marketing regulations, and counter marketing and educational efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Mathur Gaiha
- Stanford REACH Lab, Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, CA, USA.
| | - Crystal Lin
- Stanford REACH Lab, Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, CA, USA.
| | - Lauren Kass Lempert
- Stanford REACH Lab, Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, CA, USA; Center for Tobacco Control Research and Education, University of California, San Francisco, USA.
| | - Bonnie Halpern-Felsher
- Stanford REACH Lab, Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, CA, USA.
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17
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Shaikh SB, Newton C, Tung WC, Sun Y, Li D, Ossip D, Rahman I. Classification, Perception, and Toxicity of Emerging Flavored Oral Nicotine Pouches. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4526. [PMID: 36901533 PMCID: PMC10002198 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Oral Nicotine Pouches (ONPs) are the new form of nicotine pouches that have become a type of emerging smokeless tobacco product sold by various tobacco companies. These smokeless tobacco products are marketed for usage all over as snus containing tobacco-derived nicotine (natural) or as tobacco-free nicotine (synthetic) as substitutes for other tobacco products. Based on perception and socio-behavioral aspects, ONPs have become popular tobacco products among adolescents/young adults, and over 50% of young adult users of ONP use flavored ONPs, such as menthol/mint, tobacco, dessert/candy, and fruity, which are the most popular flavors. Various new ONP flavors are currently popular locally as well as in the online market. Tobacco, menthol, and fruit-flavored ONPs could motivate cigarette smokers to change to ONPs. METHODS We expanded our knowledge on natural/synthetic ONP flavor wheels to available data on ONPs, describing, in detail, their flavors and brands (US and Europe) in both natural and synthetic ONP categories. We classified over 152 snus and 228 synthetic ONPs into the following flavor categories: "Tobacco", "Menthol/Mint", "Fruity", "Candy/Deserts", "Drink", "Aroma", "Spices", and "Mixed Flavors". RESULTS Based on total numbers, we found the most popular ONP flavors, sold as tobacco and menthol, to be among natural ONPs; among synthetic ONPs, fruity and menthol are the most prominent flavors, with varying concentrations of nicotine and other flavoring chemicals, including coolant WS-23. We also showed possible molecular targets and toxicities, due to exposure to ONPs, activating several signaling cascades such as AKT and NF-kappaB, which might possibly lead to apoptosis and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT). CONCLUSIONS Considering the marketing of ONP products with various flavor profiles and with most of these products containing tobacco/menthol/fruit flavor, it is likely to have regulation and a marketing disclaimer on some of these products. Further, it would be logical to determine how the market reacts in terms of compliance and non-compliance with flavor restrictions by the regulatory agencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadiya Bi Shaikh
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Chad Newton
- College of Professional Studies, Bethel University, McKenzie, TN 38201, USA
| | - Wai Cheung Tung
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Yehao Sun
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Dongmei Li
- Department of Clinical and Translational Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Deborah Ossip
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Irfan Rahman
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
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Schneller LM, Felicione NJ, Hammond D, Goniewicz ML, O'Connor RJ. Tobacco-Free Oral Nicotine Product Use Among Youth in the U.S., 2019-2021. AJPM FOCUS 2023; 2:100061. [PMID: 37789938 PMCID: PMC10546555 DOI: 10.1016/j.focus.2022.100061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Novel tobacco-free oral nicotine products are not combusted, easy to conceal, available in flavors, and do not contain tobacco leaf. Since 2016, oral nicotine product sales have increased and may be gaining popularity among youth. This study aims to examine the trends in the prevalence and correlates of oral nicotine product use among U.S. youth. Methods Data from participants aged 16-19 years in the U.S. International Tobacco Control Policy Evaluation Project Youth Tobacco and Vaping Survey were analyzed cross-sectionally from August 2019, February 2020, August 2020, February 2021, and August 2021. Weighted descriptive statistics and logistic regressions were used to describe the use and correlates of oral nicotine products. Results Oral nicotine product use significantly increased from 3.5% in August 2019 to 4.1% in August 2021. Oral nicotine product use was most prevalent among those aged 18 years, male, and non-Hispanic White. Those who used cigarettes (AOR=2.18, 95% CI=19.37, 40.88), nicotine vaping products (AOR=4.27, 95% CI=3.02, 6.04), and smokeless tobacco (AOR=28.14, 95% CI=19.37, 40.88) in the past 30 days were more likely to report recent use of oral nicotine products. Conclusions Although oral nicotine products are less popular among U.S. youth than cigarettes, nicotine vaping products, and smokeless tobacco, their prevalence of use significantly increased. Oral nicotine product users are more likely to use other nicotine products, but the availability of flavors and easy-to-conceal design may be appealing to those who may not use nicotine products. Researchers should continue to observe the behaviors associated with oral nicotine product use to inform the need for future regulatory efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liane M. Schneller
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Nicholas J. Felicione
- Community Health and Health Behavior, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, New York
| | - David Hammond
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maciej L. Goniewicz
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Richard J. O'Connor
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
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Mavragani A, Hrywna M, Talbot EM, Lewis MJ. Tobacco-Derived Nicotine Pouch Brands and Marketing Messages on Internet and Traditional Media: Content Analysis. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e39146. [PMID: 36790840 PMCID: PMC9978966 DOI: 10.2196/39146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nicotine pouches and lozenges are increasingly available in the United States, and sales are growing. The brands of nicotine pouch products with the largest market share are produced by tobacco companies. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to examine the marketing of 5 oral nicotine products sold by tobacco companies. METHODS Internet, radio, television, print, and web-based display advertisements between January 2019 and March 2020 for 6 brands of nicotine pouches and lozenges were identified through commercially available marketing surveillance systems supplemented by a manual search of trade press and a review of brand websites. A total of 711 advertisements (122 unique) were analyzed to identify characteristics, themes, marketing strategies, and target audiences, and qualitatively compared by brand. All 5 brand websites were also analyzed. Coders examined the entirety of each advertisement or website for products, marketing claims, and features and recorded the presence or absence of 27 marketing claims and lifestyle elements. RESULTS All 6 brands of nicotine pouch products spent a total of US $11.2 million on advertising in 2019, with the most (US $10.7 million) spent by the brand Velo, and 86.1% (n=105) of the unique advertisements were web-based. Of the 711 total nicotine pouch advertisements run in 2019, the 2 brands Velo (n=407, 57%) and ZYN (n=303, 42%) dominated. These brands also made the greatest number of advertising claims in general. These claims focused on novelty, modernity, and use in a variety of contexts, including urban contexts, workplaces, transportation, and leisure activities. Of the 122 unique advertisements, ZYN's most common claims were to be "tobacco-free," featuring many flavors or varieties, and modern. Velo was the only brand to include urban contexts (n=14, 38.9% of advertisements) or freedom (n=8, 22.2%); Velo advertisements portrayed use in the workplace (n=15, 41.7%), bars or clubs (n=5, 13.9%), leisure activities (n=4, 11.1%), transportation (n=4, 11.1%), sports (n=3, 8.3%), cooking (n=2, 5.6%), and with alcohol (n=1, 2.8%). Velo and ZYN also included most of the images of people, including women and people of color. The 36 Velo ads included people in advertising in 77.8% (n=28) of advertisements, and of those advertisements with identifiable people, 40% (n=4) were young adults and 50% (n=5) were middle-aged. About one-third (n=11, 35.5%) of the 31 unique ZYN advertisements included people, and most identifiable models appeared to be young adults. Brands such as Rogue, Revel, Dryft, and on! focused mainly on product features. All nicotine pouch products made either tobacco-free, smoke-free, spit-free, or vape-free claims. The most common claim overall was "tobacco-free," found in advertisements from Rogue (1/1, 100%), ZYN (30/31, 96.8%), Velo (19/36, 52.8%), and Dryft (1/3, 33.3%), but not Revel. CONCLUSIONS Nicotine pouches and lozenges may expand the nicotine market as tobacco-free claims alleviate concerns about health harms and advertising features a greater diversity of people and contexts than typical smokeless tobacco advertising. The market leaders and highest-spending brands, ZYN and Velo, included more lifestyle claims. Surveillance of nicotine pouch marketing and uptake, including influence on tobacco use behaviors, is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mary Hrywna
- Rutgers Center for Tobacco Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Brunswick, NJ, United States.,Department Health Behavior, Society & Policy, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Eugene M Talbot
- Rutgers Center for Tobacco Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - M Jane Lewis
- Rutgers Center for Tobacco Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Brunswick, NJ, United States.,Department Health Behavior, Society & Policy, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, United States
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20
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Mays D, Long L, Alalwan MA, Wagener TL, Shang C, Roberts ME, Patterson JG, Keller-Hamilton B. The Effects of Oral Nicotine Pouch Packaging Features on Adult Tobacco Users' and Non-Users' Product Perceptions. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3383. [PMID: 36834078 PMCID: PMC9965054 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral nicotine pouches (ONPs) are novel products that are marketed as "tobacco-free" alternatives to cigarettes and smokeless tobacco (ST). This study examined the effects of ONP packaging features on adult tobacco users' and non-users' product perceptions. MATERIALS AND METHODS Adult tobacco users (cigarettes, ST, and dual cigarette/ST) and non-users (total N = 301) viewed ONP pack images in a 4 × 3 × 2 between-subject experiment testing the effects of the displayed flavor (cool mint, coffee, dark frost, and smooth), nicotine concentration (none displayed on the package, 3 mg, and 6 mg), and addiction warning label (yes or no). The outcomes were perceived substitutability of ONPs for cigarettes and ST and perceived risks. We modeled the effects of tobacco user status and the experimental factors on these outcomes. RESULTS All tobacco user groups perceived ONPs to be significantly less harmful and less addictive than non-users. There were significant effects of nicotine concentration on perceived risks. Compared to packages that did not display nicotine concentration, packages displaying 6 mg nicotine concentration produced significantly lower perceived harm (β = -0.23, 95% CI -0.44, -0.02), perceived addictiveness (β = -0.28, 95% CI -0.51, -0.05), risk appraisals of harm (β = -0.50, 95% CI -0.88, -0.12) and risk appraisals of addictiveness (β = -0.53, 95% CI -0.95, -0.11). CONCLUSIONS The study findings demonstrate that the nicotine concentration displayed on ONP packaging can affect adults' perceptions of ONPs. Further research on the effects of ONP packaging features emphasizing nicotine (e.g., "tobacco free" nicotine claims) on tobacco users and non-users is needed to assess their potential public health impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darren Mays
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43214, USA
| | - Lauren Long
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43214, USA
| | - Mahmood A. Alalwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43214, USA
- Division of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Theodore L. Wagener
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43214, USA
| | - Ce Shang
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43214, USA
| | - Megan E. Roberts
- Division of Health Behavior and Health Promotion, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Joanne G. Patterson
- Division of Health Behavior and Health Promotion, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Brittney Keller-Hamilton
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Center for Tobacco Research, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43214, USA
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21
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Dai HD, Leventhal AM. Use of Traditional Smokeless, Snus, and Dissolvable Tobacco Among U.S. Youth. Am J Prev Med 2023; 64:204-212. [PMID: 36335080 PMCID: PMC10019526 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2022.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Snus, dissolvable, and traditional smokeless tobacco product use is often amalgamated in youth epidemiologic research despite differences across these products. Prevalence, trends, and correlates of U.S. youth use across different classes of oral tobacco products are unknown. METHODS Using 2011-2020 National Youth Tobacco Survey (N=193,933) data, the authors tested for cross-year linear and quadratic trends in the weighted prevalence of ever and current use of traditional smokeless tobacco, snus, and dissolvable tobacco. Multivariable logistic regressions estimated the demographic and tobacco use factors associated with the use of different oral tobacco products in 2020. Analyses were conducted in 2022. RESULTS During 2011-2020, there were declines in the prevalence of ever use of traditional smokeless tobacco (11.0% to 5.6%; linear trend, p<0.0001) and snus (5.2% to 2.4%; p<0.0001) but no change in ever dissolvable tobacco use (0.8%-1.2%). In 2020, an estimated 1,546,000 U.S. youth ever used traditional smokeless tobacco (7.7% high school, 3.0% middle school), 662,000 ever used snus (high school: 3.5%, middle school: 1.0%), and 326,000 ever used dissolvables (high school: 1.5%, middle school: 0.8%). In 2020, females and non-Hispanic Blacks and Hispanics had lower smokeless or snus ever use odds than males and non-Hispanic Whites, respectively, whereas sexual minorities (than heterosexuals) or those speaking a language other than English at home were more likely to report ever use of dissolvable tobacco. Flavored tobacco use was common, particularly for dissolvable current users (72.8% used any flavor). CONCLUSIONS Differences in the epidemiology of oral tobacco use across product types among U.S. youth suggest that oral tobacco products should be disaggregated in future research and policy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongying Daisy Dai
- College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Adam M Leventhal
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California.
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22
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Sparrock LS, Phan L, Chen-Sankey J, Hacker K, Ajith A, Jewett B, Choi K. Nicotine Pouch: Awareness, Beliefs, Use, and Susceptibility among Current Tobacco Users in the United States, 2021. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2050. [PMID: 36767414 PMCID: PMC9915420 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about awareness, beliefs, and use of nicotine pouches (NPs). Data from 1583 U.S. adult (age ≥ 21 years) current tobacco users were collected in 2021. Respondents self-reported NP awareness, beliefs, use, and susceptibility as well as current tobacco product use and socio-demographics. We used weighted logistic and multinomial regression models to explore the associations between these variables. Overall, 46.6% of U.S. adult current tobacco users were aware of, 16.4% had ever used, and 3.0% currently used NPs. Younger individuals (vs. 61+ years) were more likely to have ever heard of NPs, while Black individuals (vs. White) were less likely to have ever heard of NPs. Individuals younger than 45 years (vs. 61+ years) and those using smokeless tobacco products (vs. non-users) were more likely to have ever used NPs. Additionally, younger than 45 years (vs. 61+ years) and current use of certain tobacco products (e.g., smokeless) were associated with current NP use. Holding favorable beliefs about NPs was associated with susceptibility to and more advanced NP use statuses (p < 0.05). Continuous surveillance of NP use and beliefs is important.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lilianna Phan
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Julia Chen-Sankey
- Center for Tobacco Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
- School of Public Health, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Kiana Hacker
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Aniruddh Ajith
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Bambi Jewett
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Kelvin Choi
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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23
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Vogel EA, Barrington-Trimis JL, Harlow AF, Wong M, Cho J, Han DH, Leventhal AM, Tackett AP. Prevalence of and disparities in adolescents' susceptibility to novel oral nicotine products marketed as "tobacco-free". Prev Med 2023; 166:107387. [PMID: 36503016 PMCID: PMC9845133 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2022.107387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Non-therapeutic, novel oral nicotine products are convenient, discreet to use, and flavored, with increasing sales in the United States. It is unclear whether these products appeal predominantly to adolescents already susceptible to inhalable nicotine products, or whether they attract adolescents who would not otherwise use nicotine. This study examined prevalence and correlates of susceptibility to inhalable and oral nicotine product use among adolescents. Ninth- and tenth-grade students from Southern California who had never used any nicotine product (N = 3129) completed an online survey in Fall 2021 assessing susceptibility to inhalable (i.e., cigarettes, e-cigarettes) and oral (e.g., pouches, gum, gummies) nicotine products. Multinomial logistic regression analyses estimated associations of demographic characteristics with odds of susceptibility to oral, inhalable, or both products. Susceptibility was highest for e-cigarettes (19.7%), followed by cigarettes (15.0%) and nicotine gum, lozenges, tablets and/or gummies (15.0%), and nicotine pouches (8.7%). Dual susceptibility to oral and inhalable products (vs. neither product type) was higher in cisgender female and non-cisgender (vs. cisgender male) adolescents (odds ratios [ORs] = 1.36-2.02; ps < 0.05). Hispanic adolescents (vs. Asian) were more susceptible to both products (OR = 1.47; p < .05). Lower-socioeconomic status (SES) and sexual minority adolescents were more susceptible to oral (ORs = 1.76-1.87; ps < 0.05) and both products (ORs = 1.32-1.88; ps < 0.05), compared to higher-SES and heterosexual adolescents. Adolescents in Southern California may be more susceptible to e-cigarettes than other nicotine/tobacco products. However, appreciable numbers may be susceptible to oral nicotine products, including some youth who might not otherwise use nicotine and youth from populations historically impacted by tobacco-related health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin A Vogel
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, United States of America; Institute for Addiction Science, University of Southern California, United States of America; Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, United States of America.
| | - Jessica L Barrington-Trimis
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, United States of America; Institute for Addiction Science, University of Southern California, United States of America; Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, United States of America
| | - Alyssa F Harlow
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, United States of America; Institute for Addiction Science, University of Southern California, United States of America
| | - Melissa Wong
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, United States of America; Institute for Addiction Science, University of Southern California, United States of America
| | - Junhan Cho
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, United States of America; Institute for Addiction Science, University of Southern California, United States of America; Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, United States of America
| | - Dae-Hee Han
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, United States of America; Institute for Addiction Science, University of Southern California, United States of America
| | - Adam M Leventhal
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, United States of America; Institute for Addiction Science, University of Southern California, United States of America
| | - Alayna P Tackett
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, United States of America; Institute for Addiction Science, University of Southern California, United States of America; Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, United States of America
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24
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Rose SW, Annabathula A, Westneat S, van de Venne J, Hrywna M, Ackerman C, Lee JG, Sesay M, Giovenco DP, Spillane T, Hudson SV, Delnevo CD. Neighborhood distribution of availability of newer tobacco products: A US four-site study, 2021. Prev Med Rep 2022; 30:102028. [PMID: 36325253 PMCID: PMC9619027 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2022.102028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Audits of tobacco retailers can identify marketing patterns as newer tobacco products are introduced in the US. Our study examined store and neighborhood correlates of availability of nicotine pouches and disposable e-cigarettes in four US sites. We conducted standardized store audits of n = 242 tobacco retailers in 2021 in different states: New Jersey, Kentucky, North Carolina, and New York. We geocoded stores linking them with census tract demographics. We conducted unadjusted and adjusted Poisson regression of availability of each product with correlates of the proportion of Non-Hispanic White residents, households under poverty, proximity to schools, site, and store type. Nicotine pouches and disposable e-cigarettes were each available in around half the stores overall, but availability differed across sites (range: 76 %-32 %). In adjusted analyses, nicotine pouches were less likely to be available in each store type vs chain convenience (IRR range 0.2-0.6) and more likely in stores in census tracts with a greater percentage of non-Hispanic White residents (IRR range 1.8-2.3). In contrast, disposable e-cigarettes were more likely to be available in tobacco/vape shops (IRR 1.9 (1.4-2.5) than convenience stores and less likely in non-specialty store types like groceries (IRR 0.2 (0.1-0.4). Newer tobacco products like nicotine pouches and disposable e-cigarettes were widely available in stores across sites, but retail marketing patterns appear to differ. As these product types become subject to increased regulation as they go through the FDA pre-market authorization process, understanding patterns and changes in the retail environment is critical to inform potential policies regulating their sale and marketing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shyanika W. Rose
- University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Behavioral Science and Center for Health Equity Transformation, Lexington, KY, USA,University of Kentucky, Markey Cancer Center, Lexington, KY, USA,Corresponding author.
| | - Arati Annabathula
- University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Behavioral Science and Center for Health Equity Transformation, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Susan Westneat
- University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Behavioral Science and Center for Health Equity Transformation, Lexington, KY, USA,University of Kentucky, College of Public Health, Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Judy van de Venne
- University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Behavioral Science and Center for Health Equity Transformation, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Mary Hrywna
- Rutgers Center for Tobacco Studies, New Brunswick, NJ, USA,Department of Health Behavior, Society, and Policy, Rutgers School of Public Health, New Brunswick, NJ, USA,Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | | | - Joseph G.L. Lee
- Department of Health Education and Promotion, College of Health and Human Performance, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Mahdi Sesay
- Department of Health Education and Promotion, College of Health and Human Performance, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Daniel P. Giovenco
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Torra Spillane
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Shawna V. Hudson
- Dept of Family Medicine and Community Health, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA,Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Cristine D. Delnevo
- Rutgers Center for Tobacco Studies, New Brunswick, NJ, USA,Department of Health Behavior, Society, and Policy, Rutgers School of Public Health, New Brunswick, NJ, USA,Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
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25
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Differences in intention to use flavored oral nicotine products among young adult e-cigarette users and non-users. Prev Med Rep 2022; 30:102027. [PMID: 36304078 PMCID: PMC9594628 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2022.102027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
New oral nicotine products (ONPs; nicotine pouches, gums, lozenges, and gummies), which are regulated as nonmedicinal tobacco products in the U.S., have flavors and other characteristics that previously attracted young adults to e-cigarettes. Whether young adults' interest in ONPs differs by e-cigarette use status and quit-vaping motivation is unknown but important for understanding the possible health impact of ONPs. It is particularly important to study if nonmedicinal ONPs attract e-cigarette users interested in quitting vaping, given that nicotine replacement (NRT) therapy uptake in young adults is low. In this study, ONP non-users (ages: 20-24) from California viewed digital images of 5 flavored ONPs (4 nonmedicinal and one NRT gum product) and reported intention to use each ONP (0-100 score). Main and interactive effects of Group (past-6-month e-cigarette non-users [n = 1,1388], e-cigarette users unmotivated to quit vaping [n = 168], and e-cigarette users motivated to quit vaping [n = 99]) and ONP type (nonmedicinal gum, nonmedicinal lozenge, gummy, pouch, and NRT gum) on use intention were tested. For each nonmedicinal ONP, use intention was higher in both e-cigarette user groups than non-users (ds = 0.47-0.59; Ps < 0.001), but did not differ between e-cigarette users with and without quit-vaping motivation (Ps ≥ 0.31). A Group × ONP type interaction was found, whereby higher use intention for e-cigarette users with vs without quit motivation was present for only gum NRT (Cohens d = 0.17; P =.01). Among young adults, e-cigarette users might be more inclined than e-cigarette non-users to try nonmedicinal ONPs regardless of quit-vaping motivation.
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26
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Felicione NJ, Schneller LM, Goniewicz ML, Hyland AJ, Cummings KM, Bansal-Travers M, Fong GT, O'Connor RJ. Oral Nicotine Product Awareness and Use Among People Who Smoke and Vape in the U.S. Am J Prev Med 2022; 63:611-618. [PMID: 35667923 PMCID: PMC9509436 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2022.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tobacco-free oral nicotine products are an emerging class of noncombustible nicotine products. Oral nicotine product sales have increased since 2016, although little research has investigated consumer awareness, use, or correlates of oral nicotine product use. The purpose of this analysis was to assess the prevalence and correlates of oral nicotine product awareness and use. METHODS This paper is a cross-sectional analysis of 2,507 U.S. participants from Wave 3 (February-June 2020) of the International Tobacco Control Four Country Smoking and Vaping Survey, a population-based survey of current and former cigarette smokers and nicotine vaping product users in the U.S. Oral nicotine product awareness and use prevalence were compared with those of heated tobacco products. Analyses conducted in late 2021 assessed the correlates of oral nicotine product awareness and use such as demographic characteristics, tobacco use (cigarettes, nicotine vaping products, smokeless tobacco), and tobacco quit attempts. RESULTS Almost 1 in 5 respondents claimed to have heard of oral nicotine products, 3.0% reported ever use, and 0.9% were current users, all of which were lower than for heated tobacco products. Ever use of oral nicotine products was more common among younger adults (e.g., aged 18-24 years), males, and current users of smokeless tobacco. Oral nicotine product prevalence was higher among those who reported having made attempts to stop smoking or vaping. CONCLUSIONS Oral nicotine product use was low among current and former smokers and nicotine vaping product users. Oral nicotine product users were demographically similar to use among individuals who smoke/vape and also use smokeless tobacco. Future studies are needed to understand emerging oral nicotine products, particularly whether they are being used as product supplements (dual use), replacements (switching), or cessation aids (quitting).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Felicione
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York.
| | - Liane M Schneller
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Maciej L Goniewicz
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Andrew J Hyland
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - K Michael Cummings
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Maansi Bansal-Travers
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
| | - Geoffrey T Fong
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada; Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Richard J O'Connor
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York
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27
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Diaz MC, Kierstead EC, Edwards D, Kim Y, Rose SW, Emery S, Khatib B, Liu M, Kostygina G. Online Tobacco Advertising and Current Chew, Dip, Snuff and Snus Use among Youth and Young Adults, 2018-2019. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:4786. [PMID: 35457651 PMCID: PMC9026367 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19084786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand the relationship between exposure to online tobacco advertising and current smokeless tobacco use in the context of tobacco control policies. METHODS Three waves of a national probability-based sample of (n = 15,985) youth and young adults were used. Analysis consisted of GEE logistic models controlling for social media use, demographics, tobacco use, average price of smokeless tobacco inclusive of taxes, smoke-free indoor air laws (SFIA) and state tobacco control expenditures. RESULTS Frequent exposure to tobacco advertising on social media is associated with greater odds of current smokeless use (aOR: 2.05, 95% CI: 1.62, 2.60). Higher prices and SFIA coverage were associated with reduced current smokeless use when examined separately from other tobacco policy variables (aOR: 0.79, CI: 0.73, 0.85; aOR: 0.44, CI: 0.28, 0.70). CONCLUSIONS Greater exposure to tobacco advertising online is associated with greater odds of smokeless use among surveyed youth and young adults. This effect of social media marketing exposure on smokeless use outweighs the mitigating impact of existing tobacco control policies. The findings underscore the need for strong advertising regulation of evolving tobacco products, including smokeless products, on social media and surveillance of digital marketing tactics to young people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan C. Diaz
- Schroeder Institute, Truth Initiative, Washington, DC 20001, USA; (E.C.K.); (D.E.); (B.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Elexis C. Kierstead
- Schroeder Institute, Truth Initiative, Washington, DC 20001, USA; (E.C.K.); (D.E.); (B.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Domonique Edwards
- Schroeder Institute, Truth Initiative, Washington, DC 20001, USA; (E.C.K.); (D.E.); (B.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Yoonsang Kim
- NORC at the University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (Y.K.); (S.E.); (G.K.)
| | - Shyanika W. Rose
- College of Medicine, Department of Behavioral Science, Center for Health Equity Transformation, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA;
| | - Sherry Emery
- NORC at the University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (Y.K.); (S.E.); (G.K.)
| | - Bushraa Khatib
- Schroeder Institute, Truth Initiative, Washington, DC 20001, USA; (E.C.K.); (D.E.); (B.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Michael Liu
- Schroeder Institute, Truth Initiative, Washington, DC 20001, USA; (E.C.K.); (D.E.); (B.K.); (M.L.)
| | - Ganna Kostygina
- NORC at the University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (Y.K.); (S.E.); (G.K.)
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28
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Silver N, Rahman B, Folger S, Bertrand A, Khatib B, Gbenro M, Schillo B. A content analysis of promotional features in US direct-mail from ads across tobacco products from 2018-2020. Nicotine Tob Res 2022; 24:1627-1634. [PMID: 35417549 PMCID: PMC9759106 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntac095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Direct-mail advertising is a crucial channel through which tobacco companies deliver price incentives that lower the barrier to tobacco use while promoting tobacco products via thematic appeals not legally permitted on other marketing channels. We examine the prevalence of price incentives and ad characteristics used in tobacco product ads mailed directly to US consumers. METHODS We analyzed the content of direct-mail tobacco advertisements (N= 1047) in circulation between January 2018 and December 2020 as captured by Mintel Comperemedia Direct. These ads were coded for product type, manufacturer/brand type, model characteristics, price incentives, and themes known to appeal to vulnerable subgroups. RESULTS Ads across all tobacco products included price incentives (96%) and contained themes that appealed to rural white (40%) and black audiences (15%). Themes known to appeal to youth and young adults were present in 40% of ads across all products, including 78% of ads promoting electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). Moreover, among the ENDS ads featuring youth appealing themes (51%), also featured young models. DISCUSSION Expanding on previous research which focused on combustible and smokeless tobacco products, this analysis examines direct-mail ads across the full range of tobacco products. Our findings highlight the need for regulations to address 1) the high prevalence of price incentives which undermine the effectiveness of excise taxes on tobacco use, and 2) ad themes and characteristics that appeal to groups vulnerable to tobacco use, both of which have the potential to further exacerbate tobacco related health disparities. IMPLICATIONS This study reinforces the importance of examining direct-mail as the dominant medium for tobacco advertising, particularly by including coupons and discount codes that reduce product price and thus circumventing the effect of tobacco-related tax legislation.Direct-mail encourages continued product loyalty and use and engages new consumers using price incentives and advertising strategies likely to appeal to price-sensitive consumers and other vulnerable populations.Substantial use of youth-appealing elements in ENDS ads contradict the tobacco industry's mandate to not appeal to youth, warranting highlighting the gaps in current regulations that allows them to continue appealing to this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Silver
- Truth Initiative Schroeder Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Basmah Rahman
- Evidence Synthesis Program, U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, Washington, DC USA
| | - Shanell Folger
- Truth Initiative Schroeder Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Bushraa Khatib
- Truth Initiative Schroeder Institute, Washington, DC, USA
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Shao Y, Zou J, Xie Z, Mayne RG, Ossip DJ, Rahman I, McIntosh S, Li D. Perceptions of Oral Nicotine Pouches on Reddit: Observational Study (Preprint). J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e37071. [PMID: 35838764 PMCID: PMC9338421 DOI: 10.2196/37071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Oral nicotine pouches are a new form of tobacco-free nicotine products launched in recent years with a variety of flavors. Objective This study aims to examine the public perceptions and discussions of oral nicotine pouches on Reddit, a popular social media platform for sharing user experiences. Methods Between February 15, 2019, and February 12, 2021, a total of 2410 Reddit posts related to oral nicotine pouches were obtained over a 2-year period. After the removal of unrelated or commercial posts, 653 Reddit posts related to oral nicotine pouches remained. Topics and sentiments related to oral nicotine pouches on Reddit were hand coded. Results The number of Reddit posts related to oral nicotine pouches increased during the study period. Content analysis showed that the most popular topic was “sharing product information and user experience” (366/653, 56%), in which sharing oral nicotine pouch products and user experiences were dominant. The next popular topic was “asking product-related questions” (product properties and product recommendations; 115/653, 17.6%), followed by “quitting nicotine products” such as vaping or smoking through use of oral nicotine pouches or quitting the oral nicotine pouches themselves (83/653, 12.7%) and “discussing oral nicotine pouch–related health” symptoms or concerns related to oral nicotine pouches (74/653, 11.3%). The least popular topic was “legality and permissions” related to oral nicotine pouches (15/653, 2.3%). In addition, a greater number of Reddit posts described positive attitudes compared to negative attitudes toward oral nicotine pouches (354/653, 54.2% vs 101/653, 15.5%; P<.001). Conclusions Reddit posts overall had a positive attitude toward oral nicotine pouches and users were actively sharing product and user experiences. Our study provides the first insight on up-to-date oral nicotine pouch discussions on social media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihan Shao
- Goergen Institute for Data Science, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Jonathan Zou
- Goergen Institute for Data Science, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Zidian Xie
- Department of Clinical & Translational Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Rachel Grana Mayne
- Tobacco Control Research Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Deborah J Ossip
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Irfan Rahman
- Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Scott McIntosh
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Dongmei Li
- Department of Clinical & Translational Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
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