Perceptions of E-Cigarettes and Nicotine Replacement Therapies Among Disadvantaged Smokers: Findings from the STOP Study
Smokers experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage are more likely to smoke and less likely to successfully quit compared to the general population. In France, electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) are the most commonly used aids for smoking cessation. However, few studies have explored how disadvantaged smokers perceive these tools. Yet, their opinions may influence both the use and the effectiveness of such aids. This study, conducted among 167 low-income smokers as part of the STOP randomized controlled trial (Smoking cessation using Tools based on patients’ Preferences), aims to understand how these smokers perceive e-cigarettes and NRT.
To explore perceptions of NRT and e-cigarettes, three questions were asked for each tool. They assessed their effectiveness in avoiding smoking, their adequacy as a substitute for cigarettes, and their ease of use. Responses, collected using a five-point Likert scale, were then grouped into three categories: “yes,” “no,” and “neutral.”
Participants had mixed views about these cessation aids. The analysis identified three profiles : “adopters” (44%) who were favorable toward both tools; “doubters of e-cigarettes ” (35%) who found the aids easy to use but questioned the effectiveness of e-cigarettes; and “resistors” (21%) who were unconvinced by either aid. The doubter profile was more common among older individuals, those not receiving social benefits, and those without depressive symptoms, while heavier smoking was associated with the resistor profile. Previous use of NRT increased the likelihood of being a doubter of e-cigarettes, whereas past use of e-cigarettes decreased the likelihood of being a doubter or a resistor.
Tailored cessation interventions addressing these factors into account may improve quit rates in this population.