Abstract
Objective
The study explored differences in illness representations of VALI guided by the Common-Sense Model of Self-Regulation (CSM-SR) among non-patient adults.
Design
We employed a cross-sectional concurrent mixed-methods design. In the quantitative analysis, we used multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA). Immersion/crystallization was used to analyze qualitative data.
Main outcome measures
We measured differences in illness representations of VALI by e-cigarette use status, gender, and urban/rural residence.
Results
E-cigarette use was associated with illness representations of VALI. Current e-cigarette users discounted the detrimental nature of VALI, compared to former and never e-cigarette users. Gender and urban/rural residence moderated the association between e-cigarette use and illness representation of VALI. In the qualitative analysis, 49.3% respondents reported components of the timeline (e.g. permanent), identity (e.g. shortness of breath), causes (e.g. THC products), consequences (e.g. life-threatening), cure/control (e.g. stop vaping), and worry (e.g. fearful).
Conclusion
Perceptions about VALI, such as cure and timeline, were associated with e-cigarettes use. Understanding the context in which adults perceive VALI, such as gender and rurality, may contribute to developing interventions that influence e-cigarette cessation. Future research employing CSM-SR to target strategies for promoting vaping abstinence is warranted.
Acknowledgements
We are grateful for the time that the participants gave to this study.
Disclosure statement
The authors have no relevant financial or non-financial interests to disclose.
Data availability
The datasets generated during and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.