A qualitative analysis of Māori and Pacific people’s experiences of using electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS)

Article
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Abstract

Introduction

If electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) are to bring public health benefits, members of population groups most affected by smoking must find them an easily adopted and satisfying replacement for smoking. We explored experiences of ENDS uptake and use among Māori and Pacific peoples living in New Zealand, and probed factors that assisted transitions from smoking to vaping.

Methods

We recruited 16 participants using whānaungatanga and community advertising. All were aged 18 or over, identified as Māori or Pacific (or both), had smoked at least 100 cigarettes, and were current ENDS users. We undertook in-depth interviews and analysed the data using a thematic analysis approach.

Results

We identified two key challenges that participants reported facing: their search for a satisfying ENDS experience and resisting social cues that could trigger relapse. Two supportive factors facilitated and reinforced smoking to vaping transitions: improved financial and physical well-being, and feeling connected to vaping communities.

Conclusion

Learning about ENDS devices from those who had successfully switched from smoking to vaping provided much needed information, reinforced the financial benefits of switching, and could inspire those making this transition to persist until they too become smoke-free.

For more information

Please contact:
Anaru Waa
University of Otago, Wellington
email andrew.waa@otago.ac.nz