Young adults' favorable perceptions of snus, dissolvable tobacco products, and electronic cigarettes: findings from a focus group study.
OBJECTIVE
We explored young adults' perceptions of snus (spitless moist snuff packed in porous bags), dissolvable tobacco products, and electronic cigarettes and intention to try these products.


METHODS
We conducted 11 focus group discussions involving a total of 66 young adults (18-26 years old) on these new tobacco products (e.g., harmfulness, potential as quit aids, intention to try) held between July and December 2010. We analyzed discussions using a thematic approach.


RESULTS
Participants generally reported positive perceptions of the new products, particularly because they came in flavors. Few negative perceptions were reported. Although some participants believed these products were less harmful than cigarettes and helpful in quitting smoking, others thought the opposite, particularly regarding electronic cigarettes. Participants also commented that these products could be gateways to cigarette smoking. Half of the participants, including a mix of smokers and nonsmokers, admitted they would try these products if offered by a friend.


CONCLUSIONS
Young adults perceive the new tobacco products positively and are willing to experiment with them. Eliminating flavors in these products may reduce young adults' intentions to try these products.
Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, MN, USA. choix137@umn.edu
Kelvin
K
Choi
Lindsey
L
Fabian
Neli
N
Mottey
Amanda
A
Corbett
Jean
J
Forster
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001290:Attitude; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008910:Minnesota / Q000453:epidemiology; D012907:Smoking / Q000523:psychology; D062789:Tobacco Products / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D014030:Tobacco, Smokeless / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D055815:Young Adult