Product Choice Research Articles

Private signals and fast product adoption under incomplete information

This paper investigates the dynamics of product adoption under incomplete information regarding the product quality. A new agent observes a small sample of product choices within the population and receives a noisy private signal regarding the realized state of the world. Using simple heuristics, the agent estimates both the product quality and the distribution of product choices in the population. The agent then chooses a product that is a best response to this estimate. We show that fast adoption of the optimal product in the population occurs if and only if the strength of the private signal exceeds a certain threshold.

Ecofeminism and menstruation: menstrual practices with reusable menstrual products among Israeli women

Menstruators perceive and experience their menstruation in diverse ways, influencing their choice of menstrual products and impacting both body literacy and the environment. This article investigates Israeli menstruators who use reusable menstrual products (RMPs), a practice viewed through the lens of ecofeminism, within the context of menstrual concealment culture and its role in perpetuating oppression. This article's objective is to reveal the extent of this ecofeminist practice and to understand the motivations and choices behind it as well as the meaning of menstruation for Israeli RMP users. An analysis of forty semi-structured interviews revealed that the participants exercise cognitive, emotional and sociocultural agency. Environmental and physical factors strongly motivated participants to use RMPs, producing predominantly positive experiences. The use of RMPs promotes novel perceptions and management strategies for menstruation, facilitating acceptance of menstrual blood and challenging prevalent narratives of shame and pollution. Finally, many participants expressed a desire to engage in legitimised conversations about menstruation and to resist the dominant discourse. This highlights the transformative potential of the ecofeminist practice of using RMPs, which can disrupt capitalist-consumer culture, challenge menstrual stigma and foster sustainable alternatives. The present study promotes knowledge and equality in education about menstrual management, concealment, products, stigma and environmental factors.

Post-pandemic motivations for consumers’ e-retailer preference in an emerging market: a qualitative approach

Purpose This paper aims to explore consumers’ post-pandemic (COVID-19) motivations for an e-retailer preference in an emerging market like India. Design/methodology/approach This study applied qualitative methodology to explore the research question, and 44 in-depth interviews were conducted with online consumers. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using open, axial and selective coding strategies. Findings This study identified seven post-pandemic motivations for consumers’ e-retailer preference, and the motivations were classified into: utilitarian (remote location and fast delivery, product choice and availability, comparative price and discounts and customer service), hedonic (aesthetics of the e-retailer store) and both utilitarian and hedonic (mobile-friendliness and user interface and interactivity). Research limitations/implications Creating knowledge post-pandemic period is essential. This study communicates empirical evidence to suggest consumers are motivated through both utilitarian and hedonic motivation for an e-retailer preference in an emerging market. Furthermore, the researchers are encouraged to collect data from more developing countries and test the proposed e-retailer preference factors. Practical implications The study offers new knowledge to online retail managers to understand how emerging market consumers prefer an e-retailer and strive to attract and retain customers in the market. Originality/value Past studies have highlighted the importance of consumer online shopping motivations and channel preferences. However, there is limited literature investigating how consumers prefer an e-retailer over other e-retailers for online shopping. This study addresses the gap in the existing retailing literature and offers fresh insights into how consumers prefer an e-retailer post-pandemic from an emerging market context.

Industrial Buyers’ Food Neophobia – A Barrier to Market Entry? A Case Study of Introducing Lumpfish to South Korea and Vietnam

The need to find sustainable food sources to feed the growing population makes the utilization of all available food resources especially important. But introducing new food is challenging and often fails. In the consumer behavior literature, food neophobia (FN), the unwillingness to try new food, has been identified as a crucial factor in understanding the adoption of new food products. However, limited research can be found on the role of FN in industrial buyers’ choice of new food products. Industrial buyers are important gatekeepers for the introduction of new food products as they decide what is offered to the consumers and may stop any market entry long before a new food product reaches the consumers’ attention. Thus, the understanding of the potential FN in industrial buying behavior, in different markets, is important to succeed with the introduction of new food products. In this study, we have explored FN as a potential barrier to the adoption of a new seafood product, farmed lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus), by industrial buyers in South Korea and Vietnam. The results revealed differences between the two countries’ industrial buyers, with South Koreans demonstrating more FN than the Vietnamese. This contradicts with the consumer research showing that FN decreases with increased income, education, and urbanization.

Enhanced Hydrogen Production via Photothermal-Coupled Ultrasound Pyrolysis of Waste Bio-Oil.

The creation of hydrogen using the lower-cost feedstock, waste organics (WOs), e. g. kitchen waste bio-oil, is a win-win solution, because it can both solve energy problems and reduce environmental pollution. Ultrasound has received considerable interest in organic decomposition; however, the application of ultrasound alone is not a good choice for the hydrogen production from WOs, because of the energy consumption and efficiency. To boost the hydrogen production based on ultrasonic cavitation cracking of bio-oil, photothermal materials are introduced into the hydrogen production system to form localized hot spots. Materials carbon black (CB), carbon nanotubes (CNT), and silicon dioxide (SiO2) all exhibit significant enhancing effects on the hydrogen production from bio-oil, and the CB exhibits the most significant strengthening effect among these materials. When the dosage of CB is 5 mg, hydrogen production rate is 180.1 μmol h-1, representing a notable 1.7-fold increase compared to the production rate without CB. In the presence of light and ultrasound, the hydrogen production rate can be increased by 66.7-fold compared to the situation where only light is present without ultrasound.

WINNING OVER THE GEN Z: EMPIRICAL INSIGHTS INTO SOCIAL MEDIA BEHAVIOUR DURING TRAVEL

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the social media behavior of Generation Z during travel, focusing on their product and service choices, as well as the environmental motivations behind these choices. The aim is to understand how social media influences their travel decisions and promotes responsible tourist behavior. Theoretical Framework: This research is grounded in theories of digital marketing and consumer behavior, particularly in the context of social media's impact on tourism. Concepts such as interactive marketing, online reviews, and social media influence are central to this investigation, providing a solid basis for understanding the dynamics of Gen Z's travel behavior. Method: The methodology adopted for this research comprises a mixed-method approach. Questionnaires were distributed, yielding 301 valid responses from Gen Z individuals born between 1995 and 2015, who had traveled at least twice a year and been active on social media for at least two years. The data collection was supplemented by interviews to gain deeper insights into their social media usage and travel preferences. Statistical tools were employed to analyze the data. Results and Discussion: The results revealed key social media preferences and usage patterns among Gen Z travelers. Notably, positive online reviews and social media influence were significant factors in their travel decisions. The discussion contextualizes these findings within the theoretical framework, highlighting the implications for effective marketing strategies. Discrepancies and limitations of the study are also considered, providing a comprehensive understanding of the research outcomes. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are significant, offering insights into how social media can be leveraged to foster responsible tourist behavior. These findings can influence practices in the tourism industry, particularly in marketing strategies aimed at Gen Z. The implications extend to benefiting local communities and the environment while enhancing tourist satisfaction. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by highlighting the innovative approach of examining social media's role in shaping responsible travel behavior among Gen Z. The relevance and value of this research are evidenced by its potential to impact marketing practices in the tourism sector, promoting sustainable tourism and benefiting both travelers and local destinations.

Social and Personal Determinants of Herbal Supplement Use in Metro Cebu, the Philippines

The present study identified herbal supplement usage patterns in Metro Cebu and comprehensively examined consumer education and behavior regarding these supplements. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted from March–July 2023 involving 316 respondents, selected through purposive sampling. The study collected data on demographic characteristics, usage patterns, sources of information, and potential hesitations related to herbal supplement use. Results indicate that the typical Metro Cebu herbal supplement user is more likely to be female, possess higher education, earn above the minimum wage, and primarily reside in Cebu City (n = 202, 63.9%). Usage of herbal supplements is driven by proactive health behaviors often influenced by social networks. Respondents generally hold a positive view of herbal supplement use, particularly those who consume them daily, attributing their preference to natural products, and their perceived cost-effectiveness and potential health benefits compared to conventional medicines. The following subgroups also tend to have more positive views about herbal supplements: [a] older age, [b] employed, [c] at a lower level of education, [d] have known illnesses, and [e] have used the product for 1-5 yr. While respondents actively verify information (n = 243, 76.9%) and inform healthcare providers (n = 180, 57%) about their supplement use, the extent to which they rely on healthcare professionals and scientific sources for guidance in shaping their behavior and product choices is limited. The study underscores the need for enhanced guidance and surveillance from healthcare providers. Furthermore, it highlights a regulatory gap in the governing framework for herbal supplement use and marketing, emphasizing the importance of revisiting or introducing regulations and guidelines to ensure safe and informed consumption practices.

The nexus between financial literacy, risk perception and investment decisions: Evidence from Indonesian investors

Financial literacy is an essential factor for individuals or households in making investment decisions. However, the problem of insufficient financial literacy is still considered one of the factors limiting the creation of successful investments, especially in relation to risk perception. Some investors have financial losses due to their limited financial literacy, making inefficient investment decisions and implicating high-risk investment choices. Hence, this study aims to explore the interconnection between financial literacy, risk perception and investment decisions. Moderated regression analysis was used for 233 investors in Indonesia who completed financial management training. The results showed that financial literacy has a positive and significant impact on investment decisions, which means that it could be used to improve the quality of investment decisions. On the other hand, risk perception as a moderating variable weakened the impact of financial literacy on investment decisions; this confirmed the consistent results before and after financial training. Overall, financial literacy across three dimensions (knowledge, skills, and attitude) plays an important role in investors allocating more funds to investment instruments than respondent groups with lower financial literacy levels. In addition, the level of financial literacy also influences the choice of investment product.

Survey of dog owners' and veterinarians' attitudes regarding the selection of flea and tick prevention products in Thailand.

Tick and flea infestations in dogs are significant concerns for both dog owners and veterinarians in Thailand. The country's climate provides an optimal environment for the proliferation of ticks and fleas, thereby increasing the risk of diseases transmitted by these parasites. At present, a diverse range of tick and flea prevention products is available on the market. This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing the choice of tick and flea prevention products among dog owners and veterinarians in Thailand. Questionnaires were distributed both online and in-person to collect data from dog owners and veterinarians. The data collection period spanned from September 1, 2022, to August 31, 2023. A total of 994 respondents, consisting of 828 dog owners and 166 veterinarians, participated in the questionnaire and were included in this study. The data were then subjected to descriptive statistics and Chi-square test. The results indicated that most dog owners consider chewable products to be the most effective form of tick and flea prevention, followed by sprays and spot-on treatments. Statistically significant factors (p < 0.05) affecting the frequency of use of tick and flea prevention products were identified, including dog breed, number of owned dogs, and owners' awareness of tick and flea issues in dogs. Most dog owners tend to use these products when their dogs are infected with ticks or fleas. In addition, owners of a single dog tended to use these products regularly compared to those with multiple dogs. Notably, some dog owners (10.99%) used unregistered products. Among veterinarians, it was observed that dog owners followed the recommendations provided by veterinarians (80.12%). In most cases, veterinarians recommend various tick and flea prevention products (74.10%). The most influential factor affecting product selection is suitability for the individual animal. This study provides insights for veterinarians and relevant stakeholders regarding the factors and attitudes that influence dog owners' selection of tick and flea prevention products. This knowledge can contribute to better planning for ectoparasite prevention. In addition, effective communication from veterinarians can increase owner awareness of the importance of tick and flea prevention, thereby reducing the incidence of diseases transmitted by ticks and fleas.

Gene therapy for retinal diseases: From genetics to treatment.

The gene therapy approach for retinal disorders has been considered largely over the last decade owing to the favorable outcomes of the US Food and Drug Administration-approved commercial gene therapy, Luxturna. Technological advances in recent years, such as next-generation sequencing, research in molecular pathogenesis of retinal disorders, and precise correlations with their clinical phenotypes, have contributed to the progress of gene therapies for various diseases worldwide, and more recently in India as well. Thus, considerable research is being conducted for the right choice of vectors, transgene engineering, and accessible and cost-effective large-scale vector production. Many retinal disease-specific clinical trials are presently being conducted, thereby necessitating the collation of such information as a ready reference for the scientific and clinical community. In this article, we present an overview of existing gene therapy research, which is derived from an extensive search across PubMed, Google Scholar, and clinicaltrials.gov sources. This contributes to prime the understanding of basic aspects of this cutting-edge technology and information regarding current clinical trials across many different conditions. This information will provide a comprehensive evaluation of therapies in existing use/research for personalized treatment approaches in retinal disorders.

High‐entropy Sulfide Catalyst Boosts Energy‐saving Electrochemical Sulfion Upgrading to Thiosulfate Coupled with Hydrogen Production

Electrochemical sulfion oxidation reaction (SOR) offers a sustainable strategy for sulfion‐rich wastewater treatment, which can couple with cathodic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) for energy‐saving hydrogen production. However, the corrosion and passivation of sulfur species render the inferior catalytic SOR performance, and the oxidation product, polysulfide, requires further acidification to recover cheap elementary sulfur. Here, we reported an amorphous high‐entropy sulfide catalyst of CuCoNiMnCrSx nanosheets in‐situ growth on the nickel foam (CuCoNiMnCrSx/NF) for SOR, which achieved an ultra‐low potential of 0.25 V to afford 100 mA cm‐2, and stable electrolysis at as high as 1 A cm‐2 for 100 h. These were endowed by the manipulated chemical environments surrounding Cu+ sites and the constructed “soft‐acid” to “hard‐acid” adsorption/desorption sites, enabling synergistically boosted adsorption/desorption process of sulfur species during SOR. Moreover, we developed an electrochemical‐chemical tandem process to convert sulfions to value‐added thiosulfate, providing a good choice for simultaneous wastewater utilization and hydrogen production.

High-Entropy Sulfide Catalyst Boosts Energy-Saving Electrochemical Sulfion Upgrading to Thiosulfate Coupled with Hydrogen Production.

Electrochemical sulfion oxidation reaction (SOR) offers a sustainable strategy for sulfion-rich wastewater treatment, which can couple with cathodic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) for energy-saving hydrogen production. However, the corrosion and passivation of sulfur species render the inferior catalytic SOR performance, and the oxidation product, polysulfide, requires further acidification to recover cheap elementary sulfur. Here, we reported an amorphous high-entropy sulfide catalyst of CuCoNiMnCrSx nanosheets in situ growth on the nickel foam (CuCoNiMnCrSx/NF) for SOR, which achieved an ultra-low potential of 0.25 V to afford 100 mA cm-2, and stable electrolysis at as high as 1 A cm-2 for 100 h. These were endowed by the manipulated chemical environments surrounding Cu+ sites and the constructed "soft-acid" to "hard-acid" adsorption/desorption sites, enabling synergistically boosted adsorption/desorption process of sulfur species during SOR. Moreover, we developed an electrochemical-chemical tandem process to convert sulfions to value-added thiosulfate, providing a good choice for simultaneous wastewater utilization and hydrogen production.

Age as a determinant of demand in the financial market

Aim. To determine the factors of age influence on the demand for financial products.Objectives. Establishment of age groups with distinction characteristics of demand for financial products; identification of groups of financial products characteristic for each age group; determination of the nature of the influence of age on demand in relation to certain financial products.Methods. The author applied a review and comparative analysis of Russian and international publications, quantitative analysis of the results of the All-Russian household survey.Results. Age groups with distinctive characteristics of demand for financial products were identified, and the selection of groups of financial products characteristic for each age group was carried out. In addition, the influence of age on demand for a number of financial products was analyzed.Conclusions. The formation of demand for financial products depends on age, which is a key demographic variable that determines the list of financial market products relevant for a particular age group, as well as quantitative and qualitative indicators of demand for financial products. Age as a determinant influences consumer choice of financial market products and consumer activity in these markets.

Meat, plant-based or in-vitro salami: Explaining food product choice of Generation Y and Z in Germany through carnism and the core dimensions of the food-related lifestyle scale

The food industry contributes to negative consequences for the environment through animal husbandry. To provide more transparency to consumers, husbandry labels were introduced. In addition, many vegetarian/vegan meat alternatives are available on the market to reduce meat consumption. A new type of meat substitute is in vitro-meat, which is grown in the laboratory using stem cells. There is a gap in knowledge regarding social attitudes that influence customers to eat meat or meat substitutes. Carnism and the core dimensions of the food-related lifestyle scale were used to explain the perception of meat, plant-based meat, and in-vitro meat. The research gap was explored using a survey on salami. The results can be used in marketing and to understand the factors that contribute to Generation Y and Z ´ s choice to eat meat. Attendants could choose between products with different attributes, such as salami type, environment label, animal welfare label, origin label, and price. The survey shows that type of salami is the most important characteristic for consumer´s choice immediately before animal welfare label. Three segments were formed through latent class analysis that differed in their attitudes and the importance of attributes for their choices. The majority of Generation Y and Z in Germany prefer vegan meat over real meat, and in-vitro meat is more popular than beef or pork meat, although this is still unknown and not yet on the German market. Carnism and core dimensions of food-related lifestyle scale partly explain choice behavior, and are also guiding people choosing in-vitro meat.

The inconspicuous power of border festivals: insights from the Chad-Cameroon border

ABSTRACT Held every two years and alternating venues between Yagoua (Cameroon) and Bongor (Chad), the Tokna Massana border festival celebrates the identity and culture of the partitioned Masa peoples. This article explores how border festivals like Tokna Massana can complement and innovate the study of borders and borderlands. Building on participant observation, semi-structured interviews and archival research, we analyze how exacting cross-border festival planning and preparation in the Masa homeland and the diaspora make each new edition possible. We argue that border festivals are worth our attention because their repertoires illuminate underrepresented knowledge production and transmission choices. Moreover, the expectation of festive commemorations underlines processual and performative modes of engagement and management of identity and historical memory. They draw our attention to unexpected use, counter use, and repurposing of border spaces and infrastructures. Finally, the study of border festivals can reveal unacknowledged histories of practical governance.

Medicinal cannabis tea contains variable doses of cannabinoids and no terpenes.

Tea is a recommended way of administration of prescribed cannabis plant products in Denmark. We aimed to investigate the cannabinoid and terpene doses contained in different teas. We analysed tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), and terpene concentrations in three repeated preparations of each type of tea, and in plant material. In standard tea, concentrations of THC were [median (min-max)] 9.5 (2.3-15), 19 (13-34), and 36 (26-57) μg/mL for products with a labelled content of 6.3%, 14%, and 22% total THC (THC + THCA), respectively. The CBD concentration in tea from a product labelled with 8% total CBD (CBD + CBDA) was 7.5 (1.9-10) μg/mL. Based on this, the recommended starting amount of 0.2L of the different teas would contain between 0.46 and 11.3mg THC, and 0.38 to 2.0mg CBD. Adding creamer before, but not after boiling, increased the THC and CBD concentration 2.3-4.4 and 2.1-fold, respectively. Terpenes were detected in plant material, but not in tea. The study elucidates THC and CBD doses in different teas, which may assist the clinician's choice of cannabis product. Moreover, it underscores the need for caution as administration as tea can result in exposure to different doses, even when the same cannabis product is used.

Organic substitution regime with optimized irrigation improves potato water and nitrogen use efficiency by regulating soil chemical properties rather than microflora structure

Context or problemImproving water and fertilizer use efficiency is an inevitable choice for sustainable potato production in North China. However, the regulation mechanism of potato water and nitrogen use efficiency under water-nitrogen coupling (W-N) regime is still unknown. Objective or research questionThe objectives from a 3-year field experiment were (1) to assess the impact of W-N regimes on potato yield and water and nitrogen use efficiency, (2) to elucidate the soil microflora structure under W-N regimes, and (3) to determine the relationship between soil chemical properties, microflora structure, and potato water and nitrogen use efficiency. MethodsA three-year two-factor split-zone potato field experiment was conducted in arid and semi-arid regions of the Inner Mongolian Plateau, with irrigation [(rainfed (W0), optimized (soil-based) irrigation (W1), conventional irrigation (W2)] as the primary treatment and N fertilizer [no N (N0), chemical N (N1), 25 % manure substitution (N2)] as the secondary treatment. ResultsPotato yield and water productivity followed N2 > N1 > N0, and partial nitrogen productivity and nitrogen agronomic efficiency followed N2 > N1 at the same irrigation level. Potato yield, nitrogen internal efficiency, partial nitrogen productivity and nitrogen agronomic efficiency first increased and then decreased, whereas water productivity gradually decreased with increasing irrigation levels under the same fertilization regime. Moreover, potato yield, soil total nitrogen, organic carbon, and microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen content peaked with the W1N2 regime. W-N regimes significantly influenced soil microbial community structure. Soil microbial α-diversity was less variable under W1 and N2 conditions. Soil bacterial network complexity and robustness were higher in W1 and W2 than in W0 regimes, whereas the opposite was true for fungi. The complexity and robustness of the soil bacterial and fungal network demonstrated for three fertilization regimes were higher in N1 and N2 than in N0 regimes. Neutral community model showed that soil microflora in W-N regime was mainly influenced by stochastic processes. PLSPM showed that organic substitution regime with optimized irrigation improves potato water and nitrogen use efficiency by regulating soil chemical properties rather than microflora structure. ConclusionsW1N2 regime synergizes well to improve potato water and N use efficiency and soil microflora stability, and organic substitution regime with optimized irrigation improves potato water and nitrogen use efficiency by regulating soil chemical properties. Implications or significanceOur findings initially clarified the regulatory mechanisms of potato water and nitrogen use efficiency in North China, offering theoretical guidance for further optimizing irrigation and fertilization management.

Effectiveness of Malodor-Reducing Ostomy Pouch Additives: An Assessment of Odor Intensity, Hedonic Tone, and Odor Character.

Background Ostomy pouch odor can have a negative impact on the quality of life of people living with a stoma. This study assessed the effectiveness of malodor-reducing ostomy pouch additives under simulated conditions. Methodology The following six commercially available products with different odor control technologies plus a control were assessed: soyethyl morpholinium ethosulphate, zinc ricinoleate (ZnR), ZnR with orange terpenes (ZnR-Orange), a proprietary copper-based deodorant, a proprietary ion mix deodorant, and a terpene blend (TB). Each was added to an ostomy pouch with skatole (a substitute for human fecal odor). Professional olfactometrists rated odors according to intensity, hedonic tone (pleasantness), and character. Results The TB and ZnR-Orange had very weak (<1.0) malodor intensity, with mean (standard deviation [SD]) ratings of 0.6 (1.1) and 0.9 (0.9), respectively. All other products (2.7-3.0) and control (3.7) were statistically higher (stronger intensity) compared with the TB(p < 0.001). The mean (SD) hedonic tone for the TB was 0.8 (1.7) (considered slightly pleasant); all other products (-0.8 to 0.1) and control (-0.9) were statistically lower (p < 0.001). Odor character profiles were broadly comparable, but products with scent additives (TB and ZnR-Orange) were predominantly associated with fragrances. Conclusions This information may help nurses and other healthcare providers when educating ostomates about their options. Other factors such as application mode and recommended dosage may also influence the choice of product. Future research on real-world populations (i.e., ostomates), as well as assessment of lubrication properties, is warranted.

Assessment of vitamins and minerals of rats fed with plantain-maize pudding prepared using edible plant leaves and metallic plates

Cooking materials are important factors that basically intended to provide covering, protection and consumers’ choice of food products. The objective of the study was to determine the vitamin profile and minerals in the serum of rats fed maize-plantain pudding cooked using different leaves and metallic plates. Different maize-plantain pudding samples were prepared using plantain and maize flour blended together 1:1 ratio. In the animal study, thirty rats were divided into six groups of five rats each. Rats in Group A served as control. Group B rats were given Tween 80. Rats in Groups C, D, E and F were fed pudding prepared using plantain leaves, ginger leaves, aluminium plates and cast iron plates respectively. The rats in each group were allowed free access to feed and clean drinking water throughout the period of the experiment for 28 days. Mineral analysis was done using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Vitamin profile was determined using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results showed that serum minerals (calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, iron and phosphorus) and total vitamin content were significantly higher in rats fed with pudding prepared using ginger leaves when compared with plantain leaves, cast iron plate and aluminium plate. The serum iron content was significantly higher in rats fed pudding prepared using cast iron plate compared to other groups. Therefore, the use of locally accessible and consumable leaves and cast iron plates or utensils may be encouraged in diet preparation

Choice of smoking cessation products among people with substance use problems in the US: Findings from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) study Wave 6

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to compare past 12-month use of cigarette smoking cessation aids (e.g., Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved cessation products or e-cigarettes for smoking cessation) among people with substance use problems (PWSUPs) who currently smoke to people without substance use problems (SUPs) who currently smoke cigarettes in a nationally representative US sample. MethodsWe used the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Wave 6 Study [n = 30,516]. Our sample comprised adult (18+) established cigarette smokers (100+ lifetime-sticks with daily/non-daily use) [n = 5,895]. The independent variable was SUP status (no, moderate, and high). The dependent variables were past-year use of: nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs), cessation medications [i.e., varenicline or bupropion], or e-cigarettes [for cigarette cessation and reduction]. Weighted multivariable logistic regression models for each dependent variable examined the associations between SUP status and each cessation aid, adjusting for cigarette dependence, daily cigarette smoking, and demographic factors. ResultsAmong people who smoke, a higher proportion of respondents with high SUP severity used NRTs, cessation medications, and e-cigarettes for cigarette cessation, respectively (12.3%, 8.4%, 15.7%), compared to those with no/low SUP severity (9.8%, 6.0%, 8.9%). In the multivariable models, respondents with high SUPs had 63% (95% CI:1.16–2.29) higher odds of using e-cigarettes for cessation than those without SUPs. No significant differences were seen between high (vs. no/low SUPs) in the past-year use of NRTs and cessation medications. ConclusionOur findings indicate that cigarette smokers with high SUPs had higher odds of using e-cigarettes for cessation and reduction compared to smokers without SUPs.