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Exploratory Focus Group Study to Investigate Teenagers’ Understandings, Awareness and Experiences of E-cigarettes

Type: Chest

Grant holder: Dr Srinivasa Katikireddi et al., MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit and Department of Public Health and Health Policy NHS Lothian

Amount Awarded: £2,136

Year: 2014 - finished

E-cigarettes have become commonplace and are being aggressively marketed in Scotland, but their likely public health impact is disputed. On one hand, they may be less harmful than cigarettes but on the other, there are concerns that e-cigarettes may act as a gateway to traditional smoking amongst young people. This study uses focus groups to explore adolescents’ views of e-cigarettes, their marketing and how young people use them in their daily lives. This study’s findings will help those working in public health to develop an appropriate policy and practice response.