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Chen J, He J, Xie Z, Li D. Public perceptions and discussions of synthetic nicotine on Twitter. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1370076. [PMID: 39131569 PMCID: PMC11310114 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1370076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Background As alternative replacement products for tobacco-derived nicotine, synthetic nicotine products have recently emerged and gained increasing popularity. This study analyzes public perception and discussion of synthetic nicotine products on Twitter (now "X"). Methods Through Twitter streaming API (Application Programming Interface), we have collected 2,764 Twitter posts related to synthetic nicotine from December 12, 2021, to October 17, 2022, using keywords related to synthetic nicotine. By applying an inductive approach, two research assistants manually determined the relevance of tweets to synthetic nicotine products and assessed the attitude of tweets as positive, negative, and neutral of tweets toward synthetic nicotine, and the main topics. Results Among 1,007 tweets related to synthetic nicotine products, the proportion of negative tweets (383/1007, 38.03%) toward synthetic nicotine products was significantly higher than that of positive tweets (218/1007, 21.65%) with a p-value <0.05. Among negative tweets, major topics include the concern about addiction and health risks of synthetic nicotine products (44.91%) and synthetic nicotine as a policy loophole (31.85%). Among positive tweets, top topics include alternative replacement for nicotine (39.91%) and reduced health risks (31.19%). Conclusion There are mixed attitudes toward synthetic nicotine products on Twitter, resulting from different perspectives. Future research could incorporate demographic information to understand the attitudes of various population groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiarui Chen
- Goergen Institute for Data Science, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Jinxi He
- Department of Computer Science, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Zidian Xie
- Department of Clinical and Translational Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Dongmei Li
- Department of Clinical and Translational Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
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Dorotheo EU, Arora M, Banerjee A, Bianco E, Cheah NP, Dalmau R, Eissenberg T, Hasegawa K, Naidoo P, Nazir NT, Newby LK, Obeidat N, Skipalskyi A, Stępińska J, Willett J, Wang Y. Nicotine and Cardiovascular Health: When Poison is Addictive - a WHF Policy Brief. Glob Heart 2024; 19:14. [PMID: 38312998 PMCID: PMC10836189 DOI: 10.5334/gh.1292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Nicotine is universally recognized as the primary addictive substance fuelling the continued use of tobacco products, which are responsible for over 8 million deaths annually. In recent years, the popularity of newer recreational nicotine products has surged drastically in many countries, raising health and safety concerns. For decades, the tobacco industry has promoted the myth that nicotine is as harmless as caffeine. Nonetheless, evidence shows that nicotine is far from innocuous, even on its own. In fact, numerous studies have demonstrated that nicotine can harm multiple organs, including the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Tobacco and recreational nicotine products are commercialized in various types and forms, delivering varying levels of nicotine along with other toxic compounds. These products deliver nicotine in profiles that can initiate and perpetuate addiction, especially in young populations. Notably, some electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) and heated tobacco products (HTP) can deliver concentrations of nicotine that are comparable to those of traditional cigarettes. Despite being regularly advertised as such, ENDS and HTP have demonstrated limited effectiveness as tobacco cessation aids in real-world settings. Furthermore, ENDS have also been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. In contrast, nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) are proven to be safe and effective medications for tobacco cessation. NRTs are designed to release nicotine in a slow and controlled manner, thereby minimizing the potential for abuse. Moreover, the long-term safety of NRTs has been extensively studied and documented. The vast majority of tobacco and nicotine products available in the market currently contain nicotine derived from tobacco leaves. However, advancements in the chemical synthesis of nicotine have introduced an economically viable alternative source. The tobacco industry has been exploiting synthetic nicotine to circumvent existing tobacco control laws and regulations. The emergence of newer tobacco and recreational nicotine products, along with synthetic nicotine, pose a tangible threat to established tobacco control policies. Nicotine regulations need to be responsive to address these evolving challenges. As such, governments should regulate all tobacco and non-medical nicotine products through a global, comprehensive, and consistent approach in order to safeguard tobacco control progress in past decades.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Amitava Banerjee
- University College London, United Kingdom
- Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, India
| | | | | | | | | | - Koji Hasegawa
- National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Japan
| | - Pamela Naidoo
- Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa, South Africa
- University of the Western Cape, South Africa
| | | | | | | | | | - Janina Stępińska
- Department of Medical Communication, School of Public Health, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
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Patel M, Kierstead EC, Kreslake J, Schillo BA. Patterns of oral nicotine pouch use among U.S. adolescents and young adults. Prev Med Rep 2023; 34:102239. [PMID: 37228836 PMCID: PMC10203764 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2023.102239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Oral nicotine pouches are gaining popularity, yet national-level research on youth and young adult use is still needed. We examined characteristics of those who use oral nicotine pouches and trends in use over time in a sample of U.S. youth and young adults. Data were obtained from a weekly, national, online, continuous tracking survey of approximately 315 unique participants (aged 15-24) per week. Bivariate analyses were conducted on those surveyed December 2021 to May 2022 (n = 7,832) summarizing demographic and tobacco product use characteristics of those currently using oral nicotine pouches, those who had ever used oral nicotine pouches, but not currently, and those who never used pouches. From December 2021 to May 2022, 16% of participants ever used nicotine pouches and 12% currently used the product. Participants who currently used oral nicotine pouches were more likely to report being aged 21+, male, and lower income. Seventy-three percent of those who currently used pouches and 33% of those who ever, but not currently, used pouches reported current cigarette smoking. Results suggest that many young people who smoke cigarettes are concurrently using oral nicotine pouches. We also examined current and ever use in respondents surveyed between September 2020 and May 2022 to assess trends over the two-year period (n = 25,944) and findings indicate stable oral nicotine product use rates over time among adolescents and young adults. Appropriate regulation is needed so nicotine naïve individuals do not initiate use and those currently using tobacco do not use oral nicotine pouches concurrently with other products.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elexis C. Kierstead
- Corresponding author at: Truth Initiative Schroeder Institute, 900 G St. NW, Washington, DC 20006, USA
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Han S, Cui L, Chen H, Fu Y, Hou H, Hu Q, Yuan Y. Stable isotope characterization of tobacco products: A determination of synthetic or natural nicotine authenticity. RAPID COMMUNICATIONS IN MASS SPECTROMETRY : RCM 2023; 37:e9441. [PMID: 36411266 DOI: 10.1002/rcm.9441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE "Tobacco-free" or synthetic nicotine products have appeared in some markets, increasing potential health risks and regulatory compliance challenges. Currently, there are few reliable methods for the determination of authenticity of natural and synthetic nicotine. Analytical techniques based on stable isotopes have broad application prospects in the traceability and identification of agricultural products. METHODS Tobacco leaves from four main tobacco production regions in China and different types of tobacco products were extracted with n-hexane and 5% sodium hydroxide to obtain nicotine extracts. Subsequent stable isotope mass spectrometry was performed by analyzing δ2 H, δ13 C, and δ15 N values of nicotine. RESULTS Firstly, results from a batch of 233 samples indicated stable isotopes were closely related to climate and geographical locations and provide a basis for a determination of the origin of tobacco leaves. In addition, the δ2 H values had significant differences between natural and synthetic nicotine and the results indicate a δ2 H value of -163.0‰ could be the threshold for assessing synthetic and natural nicotine. Finally, a total of 239 results further validated the δ2 H value as a metric for source authentication of commercial tobacco products. CONCLUSIONS Synthetic (S)-(-)-nicotine could be accurately and quickly identified using the method developed by measuring δ2 H values in a qualitative manner. To our knowledge, this is the first time a stable isotope mass spectrometry technique has been used for distinguishing the source of nicotine. This technique will aid in the accurate identification, labelling, and regulation of synthetic nicotine-based tobacco products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shulei Han
- China National Tobacco Quality Supervision and Test Center, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Tobacco Biological Effects, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lili Cui
- China National Tobacco Quality Supervision and Test Center, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Tobacco Biological Effects, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Huan Chen
- China National Tobacco Quality Supervision and Test Center, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Tobacco Biological Effects, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ya'ning Fu
- China National Tobacco Quality Supervision and Test Center, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Tobacco Biological Effects, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hongwei Hou
- China National Tobacco Quality Supervision and Test Center, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Tobacco Biological Effects, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qingyuan Hu
- China National Tobacco Quality Supervision and Test Center, Zhengzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Tobacco Biological Effects, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuwei Yuan
- Institute of Agro-product Safety and Nutrition, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences; Key Laboratory of Information Traceability for Agricultural Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Hangzhou, China
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Seaman EL, Ali FRM, Schillo BA, Vallone DM, King BA. Different Times Call for Different Measures: Using Retail Sales to Monitor the Tobacco Product Landscape. Am J Prev Med 2022; 63:e99-e102. [PMID: 35599174 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2022.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Barbara A Schillo
- Schroeder Institute, Truth initiative, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Donna M Vallone
- Schroeder Institute, Truth initiative, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Brian A King
- Office on Smoking and Health (OSH), National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (NCCDPHP), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Puff Bars, a brand of disposable e-cigarettes, have skyrocketed in popularity recently, presenting significant health and safety risks to adolescents. Puff Bars and other disposable e-cigarette products are attractive to children and teenagers because of their vibrant colors and flavors, low cost, and ease of access. This review examines the rise in Puff Bar popularity, describes notable health and safety concerns, and provides advice for parents and pediatricians in identifying and preventing adolescent Puff Bar use. RECENT FINDINGS Puff Bars have increased in popularity as their product design evaded strict regulations imposed on alternate e-cigarette products, such as Juul. In addition, Puff Bars' sweet and fruit flavors and marketing on social media have made their use pervasive among youth. Puff Bar use can lead to increased risk of e-cigarette product use-associated lung injury (EVALI) and potential exposure to carcinogens. Furthermore, the developmental risks of nicotine use during adolescence include negative effects on cognitive function and detriments to short-term memory. SUMMARY Puff Bars present a significant danger to adolescents, and it is imperative that parents and pediatricians are aware of the health risks involved with vaping. Pediatricians should explore e-cigarette use during patient visits, and parents must communicate these dangers to their children and be able to identify these products to regulate their use.
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O'Connor R, Schneller LM, Felicione NJ, Talhout R, Goniewicz ML, Ashley DL. Evolution of tobacco products: recent history and future directions. Tob Control 2022; 31:175-182. [PMID: 35241585 DOI: 10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2021-056544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Declines in cigarette smoking prevalence in many countries and the consolidation of the tobacco industry have prompted the introduction of other forms of nicotine delivery. These include electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), heated tobacco products (HTPs) and oral nicotine products (ONPs). Evolving over time, some of these products now deliver nicotine at levels comparable to cigarettes and may serve as effective substitutes for smokers. However, certain products, especially ENDS like JUUL, have also appealed to youth and non-smokers, prompting concerns about expanding nicotine use (and potentially nicotine addiction). The tobacco industry could shift away from primarily promoting cigarettes to promoting ENDS, HTPs and/or ONPs, though at this time it continues to heavily promote cigarettes in low and middle-income countries. Differing regulatory regimes may place upward and downward pressures on both cigarettes and these newer products in terms of population use, and may ultimately drive the extent to which cigarettes are or are not displaced by ENDS, HTPs and/or ONPs in the coming decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard O'Connor
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York, USA richard.o'
| | - Liane M Schneller
- Department of Health Behavior, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Nicholas J Felicione
- Health Behavior, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Reinskje Talhout
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | | | - David L Ashley
- School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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