scholarly journals Examining Twitter Discourse on Electronic Cigarette and Tobacco Consumption During National Cancer Prevention Month in 2018: Topic Modeling and Geospatial Analysis

10.2196/28042 ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 23 (12) ◽  
pp. e28042
Author(s):  
Jiahui Lu ◽  
Edmund W J Lee

Background Examining public perception of tobacco products is critical for effective tobacco policy making and public education outreach. While the link between traditional tobacco products and lung cancer is well established, it is not known how the public perceives the association between electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and lung cancer. In addition, it is unclear how members of the public interact with official messages during cancer campaigns on tobacco consumption and lung cancer. Objective In this study, we aimed to analyze e-cigarette and smoking tweets in the context of lung cancer during National Cancer Prevention Month in 2018 and examine how e-cigarette and traditional tobacco product discussions relate to implementation of tobacco control policies across different states in the United States. Methods We mined tweets that contained the term “lung cancer” on Twitter from February to March 2018. The data set contained 13,946 publicly available tweets that occurred during National Cancer Prevention Month (February 2018), and 10,153 tweets that occurred during March 2018. E-cigarette–related and smoking-related tweets were retrieved, using topic modeling and geospatial analysis. Results Debates on harmfulness (454/915, 49.7%), personal experiences (316/915, 34.5%), and e-cigarette risks (145/915, 15.8%) were the major themes of e-cigarette tweets related to lung cancer. Policy discussions (2251/3870, 58.1%), smoking risks (843/3870, 21.8%), and personal experiences (776/3870, 20.1%) were the major themes of smoking tweets related to lung cancer. Geospatial analysis showed that discussion on e-cigarette risks was positively correlated with the number of state-level smoke-free policies enacted for e-cigarettes. In particular, the number of indoor and on campus smoke-free policies was related to the number of tweets on e-cigarette risks (smoke-free indoor, r49=0.33, P=.02; smoke-free campus, r49=0.32, P=.02). The total number of e-cigarette policies was also positively related to the number of tweets on e-cigarette risks (r49=0.32, P=.02). In contrast, the number of smoking policies was not significantly associated with any of the smoking themes in the lung cancer discourse (P>.13). Conclusions Though people recognized the importance of traditional tobacco control policies in reducing lung cancer incidences, their views on e-cigarette risks were divided, and discussions on the importance of e-cigarette policy control were missing from public discourse. Findings suggest the need for health organizations to continuously engage the public in discussions on the potential health risks of e-cigarettes and raise awareness of the insidious lobbying efforts from the tobacco industry.

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jiahui Lu ◽  
Edmund W J Lee

BACKGROUND Examining public perception of tobacco products is critical for effective tobacco policy making and public education outreach. While the link between traditional tobacco products and lung cancer is well established, it is not known how the public perceives the association between electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and lung cancer. In addition, it is unclear how members of the public interact with official messages during cancer campaigns on tobacco consumption and lung cancer. OBJECTIVE In this study, we aimed to analyze e-cigarette and smoking tweets in the context of lung cancer during National Cancer Prevention Month in 2018 and examine how e-cigarette and traditional tobacco product discussions relate to implementation of tobacco control policies across different states in the United States. METHODS We mined tweets that contained the term “lung cancer” on Twitter from February to March 2018. The data set contained 13,946 publicly available tweets that occurred during National Cancer Prevention Month (February 2018), and 10,153 tweets that occurred during March 2018. E-cigarette–related and smoking-related tweets were retrieved, using topic modeling and geospatial analysis. RESULTS Debates on harmfulness (454/915, 49.7%), personal experiences (316/915, 34.5%), and e-cigarette risks (145/915, 15.8%) were the major themes of e-cigarette tweets related to lung cancer. Policy discussions (2251/3870, 58.1%), smoking risks (843/3870, 21.8%), and personal experiences (776/3870, 20.1%) were the major themes of smoking tweets related to lung cancer. Geospatial analysis showed that discussion on e-cigarette risks was positively correlated with the number of state-level smoke-free policies enacted for e-cigarettes. In particular, the number of indoor and on campus smoke-free policies was related to the number of tweets on e-cigarette risks (smoke-free indoor, <i>r</i>49=0.33, <i>P</i>=.02; smoke-free campus, <i>r</i>49=0.32, <i>P</i>=.02). The total number of e-cigarette policies was also positively related to the number of tweets on e-cigarette risks (<i>r</i>49=0.32, <i>P</i>=.02). In contrast, the number of smoking policies was not significantly associated with any of the smoking themes in the lung cancer discourse (<i>P</i>&gt;.13). CONCLUSIONS Though people recognized the importance of traditional tobacco control policies in reducing lung cancer incidences, their views on e-cigarette risks were divided, and discussions on the importance of e-cigarette policy control were missing from public discourse. Findings suggest the need for health organizations to continuously engage the public in discussions on the potential health risks of e-cigarettes and raise awareness of the insidious lobbying efforts from the tobacco industry.


2018 ◽  
Vol 27 (Suppl 1) ◽  
pp. s111-s117 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stella A Bialous ◽  
Stanton A Glantz

There has been a global decline in tobacco consumption that, if continued, will negatively impact the tobacco industry’s profits. This decline led the industry to invent and market new products, including heated tobacco products (HTP). HTP are an extension of the industry’s strategies to undermine government’s tobacco regulatory efforts as they are being promoted as part of the solution for the tobacco epidemic. Under the moniker of ‘harm reduction’, the tobacco companies are attempting to rehabilitate their reputation so they can more effectively influence governments to roll back existing tobacco control policies or create exemptions for their HTP. Rolling back tobacco control policies will make it easier for the companies to renormalise tobacco use to increase social acceptability for all their products. When regulations are absent or when loopholes exist in classifying HTP as a tobacco product (thus subject to all tobacco control regulations), the industry’s marketing of HTP is making these products more visible to the public and more accessible. Governments need to ensure that HTP are regulated as tobacco products or drugs and reject partnerships with the tobacco companies to promote ‘harm reduction’. The tobacco companies remain the vector of the tobacco-caused epidemic and cannot be part of the global tobacco control solution.


2016 ◽  
Vol 26 (2) ◽  
pp. 149-152 ◽  
Author(s):  
Cristina Lidón-Moyano ◽  
Juan Carlos Martín-Sánchez ◽  
Patrick Saliba ◽  
Jan Graffelman ◽  
Jose M Martínez-Sánchez

ObjectiveTo analyse the correlation between the implementation of tobacco control policies and tobacco consumption, particularly rolling tobacco, electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) users and the intent to quit smoking in 27 countries of the European Union.DesignEcological study with the country as the unit of analysis.Data sourcesWe used the data from tobacco control activities, measured by the Tobacco Control Scale (TCS), in 27 European countries, in 2010, and the prevalence of tobacco consumption data from the Eurobarometer of 2012.AnalysisSpearman correlation coefficients (rsp) and their 95% CIs.ResultsThere was a negative correlation between TCS and prevalence of smoking (rsp=−0.41; 95% CI −0.67 to −0.07). We also found a negative correlation (rsp=−0.31) between TCS and the prevalence of ever e-cigarette users, but it was not statistically significant. Among former cigarette smokers, there was a positive and statistically significant correlation between TCS and the consumption of hand-rolled tobacco (rsp=0.46; 95% CI 0.06 to 0.70). We observed a similar correlation between TCS and other tobacco products (cigars and pipe) among former cigarette smokers. There was a significant positive correlation between TCS and intent to quit smoking in the past 12 months (rsp=0.66; 95% CI 0.36 to 0.87).ConclusionsThe level of smoke-free legislation among European countries is correlated with a decrease in the prevalence of smoking of conventional cigarettes and an increase in the intent to quit smoking within the past 12 months. However, the consumption of other tobacco products, particularly hand-rolled tobacco, is positively correlated with TCS among former cigarette smokers. Therefore, tobacco control policies should also consider other tobacco products, such as rolling tobacco, cigars and pipes.


2015 ◽  
Vol 16 (14) ◽  
pp. 5721-5726 ◽  
Author(s):  
Greg A Raspanti ◽  
Mia Hashibe ◽  
Bhola Siwakoti ◽  
Mei Wei ◽  
Binay Kumar Thakur ◽  
...  

Author(s):  
Vinod K. Ramani ◽  
Ganesha D. V. ◽  
Radheshyam Naik

Abstract Introduction Clinical cancer can arise from heterogenous pathways through various genetic mutations. Although we cannot predict the timeline by which an individual will develop cancer, certain risk assessment tools can be used among high-risk groups for focusing the preventive activities. As primary level of cancer prevention, healthy lifestyle approach is being promoted. The etiological factors for lung cancer include by-products of industrialization and air pollution. We need to factor the increase in household air pollution as well. Methods “PubMed” database and Google search engines were used for searching the relevant articles. Search terms with Boolean operators used include “Cancer prevention,” “Missed opportunities in cancer causation,” and “incidence of risk factors.” This review includes 20 studies and other relevant literature that address the opportunities for cancer prevention. Body The narrative describes the association between many of the risk factors and development of cancer. This includes tobacco, alcohol, infections, air pollution, physical inactivity, diet, obesity, screening and preventive strategies, chemoprevention, biomarkers of carcinogenesis, and factors that prolong the diagnosis of cancer. Discussion Reports from basic science research provide evidence on the potential of biologically active food components and pharmacological agents for mitigating the risk of cancer and its progression. However, some reports from observational studies and randomized trials have been inconsistent. We need to recognize the impact of sociodemographic factors such as age, sex, ethnicity, culture, and comorbid illness on preventive interventions. Spiral computed tomographic scan is a robust tool for early detection of lung cancer. Conclusion Infectious etiology for specific cancers provides opportunities for prevention and treatment. The complex interplay between man and microbial flora needs to be dissected, for understanding the pathogenesis of relevant malignancies. For reducing the morbidity of cancer, we need to focus on prevention as a priority strategy and intervene early during the carcinogenic process.


2020 ◽  
Vol 30 (Supplement_5) ◽  
Author(s):  
K Pluta ◽  
Ł Balwicki

Abstract Research shows that over 80% of smokers start their habit under the age of 18. A few years ago young people undertook risky behaviors related to nicotine initiation mainly by smoking cigarettes. Today, next to traditional tobacco products, electronic cigarettes are becoming more and more popular. Due to the prevalence of new forms of nicotine addiction, modification of anti-tobacco prevention programs is required. The purpose of the research was exploration - learning the opinions and attitudes of young people towards e-cigarettes. The qualitative study was conducted using the FGI method (focus group interview). The meetings were modereted by specially trained psychologists. 48 students participated in the meetings of six focus groups, divided by gender and smoking status (smokers/non-smokers). The participants are young people aged 15-19, attending high schools in Warsaw, Kielce and Lublin. In conversations, young people emphasized the impact of e-cigarettes in smoking initiation - it usually occurs at the age of 12-14. E-cigarettes are perceived as cigarettes “for younger”, non-addictive, less serious, providing more entertainment. 'Cloud chasing' is particularly popular. They perform social functions - they are helpful in establishing relationships. Teenagers do not see the harmfulness of e-cigarettes. Participants mentioned their advantages over traditional tobacco products - they can be smoked everywhere and do not leave an unpleasant smell. Some of the respondents admit to the simultaneous use of electronic and traditional cigarettes. Moreover, many parents allow children to smoke electronic cigarettes. Vaping have become a natural way to relaxation and socialization for adolescents. E-cigarettes do not have such a negative connotation as traditional tobacco products. Young people do not see them as harmful, which is a challenge for effective preventive measures. Key messages Adolescents do not see e-cigarettes as harmful, which is a challenge for effective preventive measures. Vaping have become more and more popular - it's natural way to relaxation and socialization for young people.


Author(s):  
Jennifer C. Morgan ◽  
Joseph N. Cappella

Under US law, tobacco products may be authorized to claim lower exposure to chemicals, or lower risk of health harms. We sought to examine the harm perceptions and beliefs about potential modified risk tobacco products (MRTPs). We recruited 864 adult current and former smokers in August 2019. Participants read a paragraph describing the potential for the FDA to authorize MRTPs and a brief description of MRTPs. The most endorsed beliefs for each product were that they contained nicotine and that they were risky. Believing that e-cigarettes can help smokers quit smoking, that they tasted good, and looked cool were associated with greater odds of intending to try e-cigarettes after controlling for demographic and use factors. For snus, the beliefs that the product was not addictive and tasted good were associated with increased odds of intending to try snus. The beliefs that heated tobacco would taste good and would be a good quit aid was associated with increased odds of intentions to try heated tobacco products. Understanding what the public believes about products currently or potentially authorized to be marketed as modified risk tobacco products can inform communication efforts.


2015 ◽  
Vol 1 (5) ◽  
pp. 346-353 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lijing Jiao ◽  
Yian Wang ◽  
Ling Xu ◽  
Ming You

2021 ◽  
pp. tobaccocontrol-2021-056616
Author(s):  
Ali Chalak ◽  
Rima Nakkash ◽  
Niveen M E Abu-Rmeileh ◽  
Yousef S Khader ◽  
Mohammed Jawad ◽  
...  

BackgroundWaterpipe tobacco smoking rates in the Eastern Mediterranean region are among the highest worldwide, yet little evidence exists on its economics. Estimates of demand elasticities for tobacco products are largely limited to cigarettes. This study aimed to estimate own-price and cross-price elasticities of demand for cigarettes and waterpipe tobacco products in Lebanon, Jordan and Palestine.MethodsA volumetric choice experiment was conducted using nationally representative household surveys. The choice experiment elicited respondents’ stated purchases of eight cigarette and waterpipe tobacco product varieties by hypothetically varying prices. Data were analysed using zero-inflated Poisson models that yielded demand elasticity estimates of cigarette and waterpipe tobacco consumption.ResultsThe study included 1680 participants in Lebanon (50% female), 1925 in Jordan (44.6% female) and 1679 in Palestine (50% female). We found the demand for premium cigarettes to be price elastic (range, −1.0 to −1.2) across all three countries, whereas the demand for discount cigarettes was less elastic than premium cigarettes in Lebanon (−0.6) and Jordan (−0.7) and more elastic in Palestine (−1.2). The demand for premium waterpipe tobacco was highly elastic in Lebanon (−1.9), moderately elastic in Jordan (−0.6) and inelastic in Palestine (0.2). The cross-price elasticity between cigarettes and waterpipe tobacco was near zero, suggesting that the two products are not considered to be close substitutes by consumers.ConclusionsThese results serve as a strong evidence base for developing and implementing fiscal policies for tobacco control in the Eastern Mediterranean region that address cigarettes and waterpipe tobacco products.


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