JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Vaping has increased dramatically over the past few years, especially among younger demographics. However, researchers are finding that a large number of e-cigarette users want to quit. Little is known about the unique aspects of vaping cessation, which is critical to informing the development of relevant resources and interventions for e-cigarette users who want to quit. Social media forums, like Reddit, provide opportunities to understand the experiences of behavior change, like quitting vaping, from the perspectives of end users.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to examine a quit vaping subreddit to understand how e-cigarette users are experiencing and approaching vaping cessation. Specifically, we examined reasons for starting vaping, reasons for quitting, methods of quitting, barriers and facilitators to quitting, and benefits of quitting.

Methods:

A total of 1228 posts were collected. Using conventional content analysis, the posts were inductively coded to generate categories and subcategories. Data was analyzed using NVivo 12 qualitative data analytic software.

Results:

The majority of users cited using e-cigarettes to help them quit smoking. Their reasons for quitting primarily related to feeling "stuck to the vape", and experiencing negative physical consequences associated with vaping, especially in relation to their lungs (e.g., tight chest). Most users reported a preference for gradual reduction in use, particularly through the use of their own devices by tapering the nicotine content. The top barriers to quitting primarily related to intensity of addiction and mental health challenges. The top facilitators to quitting related to employing distraction techniques (e.g., hobby, gaming, mindfulness exercises), as well as having a positive mindset. Reported benefits included physical and mental health benefits, as well as financial freedom.

Conclusions:

The findings of this study reveal unique aspects that encompass the process of quitting vaping. These findings have significant implications for both policy and intervention development.