Mrs Frances Sherratt, Professor Jude Robinson, Dr Michael Marcus and Professor John Field
Presenter(s)
Frances Sherratt PhD Researcher, Roy Castle Research Programme, University of Liverpool Cancer Research Centre
Abstract
Research suggests that electronic cigarettes (e-cigs) may be used as an effective smoking cessation tool, although they have yet to be prescribed within UK Stop Smoking Services due to a lack of product regulation. A better understanding of e-cig usage may inform and direct future Stop Smoking Services, as they may be considered a viable treatment option in future.
Aim and methods:
Previous research has focused upon e-cig usage among more general populations. The current study draws upon questionnaire data from 300 participants who have attended Roy Castle FagEnds, Liverpool (Stop Smoking Service). This project aims to explore e-cig usage and smoking behaviours, relating this to participants’ smoking-related health risk perceptions.
Results:
Preliminary findings revealed that most participants were female (57%), current smokers (52%), and had used e-cigs previously (58%). E-cig usage was influenced by factors including, social endorsement and e-cig risk perception. The presentation will also describe differences in usage based on age, ethnicity, socio-economic status and smoking-related risk perceptions.
Conclusions:
This study provides a richer understanding of the influences of electronic cigarette use and attitudes towards them, but also demonstrates how such factors should be considered to inform and direct future UK Stop Smoking Service provision.
Source of funding: Liverpool Clinical Commissioning Group.
