Decisions to Use E‐cigarettes or Behavioural Support to Quit Tobacco

Tobacco contains nicotine, which is highly addictive and can cause dependence. Although many people understand the negative health consequences of smoking for themselves and those around them, cutting down or stopping smoking can be highly challenging.

UK stop smoking services are designed to assist individuals who wish to stop smoking through pharmacotherapy and behavioural support. Despite the success of the programme, attendance has been dropping. Instead, more people have reported using e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid.

A recent qualitative study, published in the journal of addiction, has examined people's choice of smoking cessation method, in particular, individuals decisions to use e‐cigarettes or behavioural support.

The researchers interviewed current or recent smokers and stop smoking service staff.

Results were analysed through the 'capability', 'opportunity', 'motivation' and 'behaviour' framework (COM-B).

Capability

• There seemed to be a lack of clarity around the safety of vaping. This prevented people from feeling capable of knowing the potential harms and making informed decisions.
• In general, people felt they were capable of finding local stop smoking services if they so desired.

Opportunity

• People felt vape shops were more likely to provide thorough explanations about the range of products available.
• The cost of smoking was a significant factor in peoples decision to stop. Vaping opportunities were increased because of economic availability.
• Waitlists and time constraints reduced the opportunity to access smoking cessation services

Motivation

• Motivations for using or avoiding e‐cigarettes and smoking cessation services often appeared to overlap.
• Information about nicotine replacement therapy provided by smoking cessation services or vaping often came from peoples experiences and personal views.

The research shows us that people are turning to a range of methods to reduce or quit smoking. Stop smoking services should take this into account and devise person-centred interventions that address the different choices, intentions and range of needs.