Assessment of Electronic Cigarette User Terminology and Knowledge using Mixed Methods

Electronic cigarettes (ECIGs) have evolved rapidly over the past several years, and it is unclear if terminology used when assessing ECIG knowledge and use behavior has objective and well-understood definitions between consumers, as well as between consumers and the research community. The purpose of this study was to use semi-structured interviews to obtain a better understanding of ECIGs from the perspective of regular ECIG users. One-hour interviews consisted of both open- and closed-ended questions. Questions probed the terminology used by participants to describe both individual and combination device features, as well as ECIG use behaviors. Qualitative data was used to better inform the quantitative data collected using a concurrent triangulation design. Study results overall showed many similarities in terminology used by different device users; however, some differences were observed in terminology used to describe device types and characteristics among mod and pod users with users describing devices similar to their own in more detail (i.e., more mod users using ‘mod’ and ‘tank’ for the mod-style device and more pod users using ‘pod’ for the pod-style devices). Users were able to provide basic information about their own devices (i.e., brand name, refillable/disposable); however, questions about more details of their devices/liquids were difficult to answer, especially for pod users (i.e., nicotine type, power levels). This study provides evidence of a disconnect in terminology use among device users and a lack of knowledge of some device/liquid characteristics. This is important information as it may help improve ECIG education and regulation efforts and the topic should be further explored