Perceptions of Alternative Tobacco Products, Anti-tobacco Media, and Tobacco Regulation among Young Adults: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Objectives With increased alternative tobacco product (ATP) use and lagging public health action, we explored perceptions of ATPs, anti-tobacco messaging, and tobacco regulation among young adults. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 60 Georgia college students aged 18-25 using: (1) cigarettes, little cigars/cigarillos (LCCs), smokeless tobacco, or e-cigarettes ≥15 days of the past 30; or (2) hookah ≥10 of the past 30 days (due to lower frequency of use). Of 99 participants recruited, 80 consented, and 60 participated. Results Participants were on average 21.01 years old (SD = 2.07), 56.7% women, and 65.0% black; 56.7% reported current use of cigarettes, 43.3% LCCs, 26.7% smokeless tobacco, 45.0% e-cigarettes, and 41.7% hookah. Cigarettes were perceived as most harmful to health and most addictive. E-cigarettes and hookah were generally regarded as lowest risk. Many indicated that ATP risk information was limited or inaccessible and that most anti-tobacco campaigns were irrelevant to ATPs. Participants requested more research and dissemination of evidence regarding ATP risks and need for ATP regulation. Conclusions In light of low risk perceptions regarding ATPs among young adults, research, anti-tobacco campaigns, and regulation must address their known and potential risks.