Smoking Dependence, Time-Discounting, and Sustained Cessation Behavior: A Longitudinal Study of Predominantly Light Smokers.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to assess whether two established psychosocial predictors of smoking abstinence, nicotine dependence and time-discounting, also apply to a population of predominantly cigarette light smokers, which is the dominant pattern of smoking in countries like Mexico. Relatively infrequent smoking is increasingly prevalent, yet still harmful, making it important to understand the predictors of cessation in this population. AIMS AND METHODS: Mexican adult smokers recruited from an online consumer panel were surveyed every 4 months between November 2018 and July 2020. We considered respondents who reported a quit attempt in between surveys (n = 1288). Dependence was measured with a 10-item version of the Wisconsin Inventory of Smoking Dependence Motives (WISDM). Time-discounting was assessed with five branching questions about hypothetical reward scenarios. Logistic models regressed sustained quit attempts (≥30 days of abstinence) at time t + 1 on study variables at time t. RESULTS: We found strong interitem reliability (α = 0.92) and intraindividual consistency of our brief WISDM (ρ = 0.68), but moderate intraindividual consistency of the time-discounting measure (ρ = 0.48). Forty-eight percent of the sample reported sustained quit attempts, and 79% were non-daily or light daily smokers (≤5 cigarettes per day). Smokers with higher WISDM-10 had lower odds of sustained quitting and this result remained when controlling for smoking frequency and the Heaviness of Smoking Index (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.768). Time-discounting was unassociated with sustained quitting. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that a brief, 10-item multidimensional measure of dependence is useful for predicting sustained quitting in a context of relatively light smoking; time-discounting appears less relevant, although our results are not conclusive because of the low test-retest reliability of our measure. IMPLICATIONS: Given the increase in non-daily and light daily cigarette smoking in many countries, including in Mexico, and the health risks this still poses, it is important to understand the predictors of cessation among relatively light smokers. The WISDM-10 multidimensional measure seems to be a good instrument to assess dependence and predict successful quitting in this population, and possibly more appropriate than physical dependence measures. As such, it could help design and target more suitable cessation treatments for non-daily and daily light cigarette smokers. While this study did not find time-discounting to be a relevant predictor of smoking abstinence, future studies should explore other measures.

Aceptabilidad de propuestas de regulación de los Sistemas Electrónicos de Administración de Nicotina entre consumidores en México.

OBJETIVO: Explorar la aceptabilidad de la actual prohibición de Sistemas Electrónicos de Administración de Nicotina (SEAN) y cuatro propuestas regulatorias (prohibición de saborizantes, espacios libres de emisiones, edad mínima para compra y prohibición de promociones) entre usuarios de nicotina. Material y métodos. Estudio transversal de panel realizado en fumadores y vapeadores mexicanos (no-viembre 2018-marzo 2020). Mediante análisis de regresión logística se estimaron razones de momios ajustadas (RMa) para evaluar la asociación entre las variables independientes y el apoyo a la prohibición y cuatro propuestas regulatorias. RESULTADOS: El apoyo de la prohibición fue de 20%. El nivel de aceptación de las propuestas fue de 21% prohibición de sabores, 23.2% prohibición de promociones, 40.5% espacios libres de emisiones, y 47.9% edad mínima para compra. Con-clusiones. En México existe un rechazo generalizado de los usuarios de nicotina a la prohibición de los SEAN, y mayor aceptación sobre regulación de espacios libres de emisiones y edad mínima de compra.

Exposure to e-cigarette advertising and provaping websites, and the social acceptability of their use among nicotine users.

Objectives: To evaluate the prevalence of exposure to Internet communications on and advertising of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and their association with perceptions of the social acceptability of e-cigarettes in Mexico. Methods: Data were analyzed from eight surveys (2018-2021) of an online sample of Mexican adult (> 18 years) smokers and dual users (of combustible and electronic cigarettes). Self-reported exposure to e-cigarette advertising across various marketing channels was assessed, as well as visits to e-cigarette websites. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between perceptions of the social acceptability of e-cigarette use and level of advertising exposure and visits to e-cigarette websites. Results: The Internet and outside e-cigarette stores were where exposure to advertising most occurred, as reported by 47.4% and 46.8% of respondents, respectively. Respondents who noticed e-cigarette advertisements on the Internet (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.43, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.25, 1.63), outside e-cigarette stores (adjusted OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.14, 1.50), and in temporary outlets (adjusted OR 1.16, 95% CI 1.01, 1.34), and those who visited e-cigarette websites (adjusted OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.25, 1.76) were more likely to perceive e-cigarettes as socially acceptable. Noticing advertisements across more channels was also associated with higher perceived social acceptability of e-cigarette use. Conclusions: Being exposed to e-cigarette marketing, either online or through traditional marketing channels, is associated with perceived social acceptability of e-cigarette use, as is contact with provaping sites. Regulatory options to avoid the proliferation of promotional websites disguised as opinion or user sites need to be considered.

Exposure to e-cigarette advertising and provaping websites, and the social acceptability of their use among nicotine users

[ABSTRACT]. Objectives. To evaluate the prevalence of exposure to Internet communications on and advertising of elec- tronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and their association with perceptions of the social acceptability of e-cigarettes in Mexico. Methods. Data were analyzed from eight surveys (2018–2021) of an online sample of Mexican adult (> 18 years) smokers and dual users (of combustible and electronic cigarettes). Self-reported exposure to e-cigarette advertising across various marketing channels was assessed, as well as visits to e-cigarette websites. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between perceptions of the social acceptability of e-cigarette use and level of advertising exposure and visits to e-cigarette websites. Results. The Internet and outside e-cigarette stores were where exposure to advertising most occurred, as reported by 47.4% and 46.8% of respondents, respectively. Respondents who noticed e-cigarette adver- tisements on the Internet (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.43, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.25, 1.63), outside e-cigarette stores (adjusted OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.14, 1.50), and in temporary outlets (adjusted OR 1.16, 95% CI 1.01, 1.34), and those who visited e-cigarette websites (adjusted OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.25, 1.76) were more likely to perceive e-cigarettes as socially acceptable. Noticing advertisements across more channels was also associated with higher perceived social acceptability of e-cigarette use. Conclusions. Being exposed to e-cigarette marketing, either online or through traditional marketing channels, is associated with perceived social acceptability of e-cigarette use, as is contact with provaping sites. Regu- latory options to avoid the proliferation of promotional websites disguised as opinion or user sites need to be considered.

[RESUMEN]. Objetivos. Evaluar la prevalencia de la exposición a las comunicaciones por Internet y la publicidad de los cigarros electrónicos (e-cigarettes), así como su asociación con las percepciones sobre la aceptabilidad social de los cigarrillos electrónicos en México. Métodos. Se analizaron los datos de ocho encuestas (2018-2021) de una muestra en línea de adultos mexicanos (mayores de 18 años) fumadores y consumidores dobles (cigarrillos combustibles y cigarrillos electrónicos). Se evaluaron la exposición —referida por los propios encuestados— a la publicidad de cigarri- llos electrónicos en varios canales de comercialización y las visitas a sitios web de cigarrillos electrónicos. Se realizó un análisis de regresión logística para evaluar la relación entre la percepción de aceptabilidad social del consumo de cigarrillos electrónicos, por una parte, y el nivel de exposición publicitaria y las visitas a sitios web de cigarrillos electrónicos, por la otra. Resultados. La mayor exposición a la publicidad se dio en las tiendas virtuales y físicas donde se ven- den cigarrillos electrónicos, según lo notificado por 47,4% y 46,8% de los encuestados, respectivamente. Los encuestados que observaron anuncios de cigarrillos electrónicos en Internet (razón de probabilidades ajustada [OR ajustada] 1,43; intervalos de confianza [IC] del 95 %: 1,25; 1,63), en tiendas físicas de cigarrillos electrónicos (OR ajustada 1,31; IC del 95 %: 1,14; 1,50) y en puntos de venta temporales (OR ajustada 1,16; IC del 95 %: 1,01; 1,34), y los que visitaron sitios web de cigarrillos electrónicos (OR ajustada 1,48; IC del 95 %: 1,25; 1,76) fueron más propensos a percibir los cigarrillos electrónicos como socialmente aceptables. Asimismo, se asoció el hecho de observar anuncios en más canales con la percepción de una mayor acept- abilidad social del consumo de cigarrillos electrónicos. Conclusiones. La exposición a la publicidad de los cigarrillos electrónicos, ya sea en línea o por los canales tradicionales, así como el contacto con sitios web que promueven el vapeo, se relaciona con la percepción acerca de la aceptabilidad social del consumo de cigarrillos electrónicos. Deberían considerarse alternativas regulatorias para evitar la proliferación de sitios web promocionales disfrazados de sitios de opinión o de usuarios.

[RESUMO]. Objetivos. Avaliar a prevalência da exposição a comunicações e propagandas sobre cigarros eletrônicos na internet e sua associação com percepções de aceitação social dos cigarros eletrônicos no México. Métodos. Foram analisados dados de oito pesquisas (2018 a 2021) de uma amostra on-line de adultos me- xicanos (maiores de 18 anos) fumantes e usuários duais (de cigarros combustíveis e eletrônicos). Avaliou-se a exposição autorrelatada à propaganda de cigarros eletrônicos em diversos canais de marketing, além de vis- itas a sites de cigarros eletrônicos. Foi utilizada uma análise de regressão logística para avaliar a associação entre percepções de aceitação social do uso de cigarros eletrônicos e o nível de exposição a propagandas e visitas a sites de cigarros eletrônicos. Resultados. A maior exposição a propaganda ocorreu na internet e no exterior de tabacarias que vendem cigarros eletrônicos, conforme relatado por 47,4% e 46,8% dos respondentes, respectivamente. Os respon- dentes que haviam notado propagandas de cigarros eletrônicos na internet (razão de chances [RC] ajustada: 1,43; intervalo de confiança [IC] de 95%: 1,25-1,63), no exterior de tabacarias que vendem cigarros eletrôni- cos (RC ajustada: 1,31; IC de 95%: 1,14-1,50) e em pontos temporários de venda (RC ajustada: 1,16; IC de 95%: 1,01-1,34), e os respondentes que visitavam sites de cigarros eletrônicos (RC ajustada: 1,48; IC de 95%: 1,25-1,76) eram mais propensos a achar que os cigarros eletrônicos eram socialmente aceitáveis. A observação de propaganda em um maior número de canais também estava associada à percepção de maior aceitação social do uso de cigarros eletrônicos. Conclusões. A exposição ao marketing de cigarros eletrônicos, seja on-line ou por meio de canais tradicio- nais de marketing, está associada à percepção de aceitação social do uso de cigarros eletrônicos, assim como o contato com sites pró-vaping. Devem-se cogitar opções regulatórias para evitar a proliferação de sites promocionais disfarçados de sites de opinião ou de usuários.

Transitions between tobacco products: Correlates of changes in cigarette smoking and e-cigarette use among exclusive adult smokers and dual users in Mexico.

This study examined transitions in tobacco products use among Mexican smokers and dual users. Data were analyzed from exclusive smokers (n = 2,946) and dual users (n = 1,643) recruited from an online consumer research panel and surveyed every-four months from November 2018 to April 2021. For exclusive smokers, estimated transitions were (time "t + 1" four months after prior survey): a) remain as exclusive smokers; b) dual use; c) exclusive e-cigarette use or quit both products. Among dual users, transitions analyzed were: a) remain as dual user; b) exclusive smoker; c) exclusive e-cigarette user or quit both products. Multinomial models regressed transitions at "t + 1" on time "t" for control variables. Most exclusive smokers (81%) remained as such, 12.6% transitioned to dual use, 2.3% to exclusive e-cigarette use, and 4% quitted both products. Exclusive smokers were more likely to transition to dual use if they recently attempted to quit (AOR = 1.45) or had partners/family or friends who used e-cigarettes (AOR = 2.47 & 2.56 respectively). Most dual users (74.8%) remained as dual users, 20.4% transitioned to exclusive smoking, 1.6% transitioned to exclusive e-cigarette use, and 3.2% quitted both products. Dual users were more likely to transition to exclusive smoking if they had lower educational attainment, recently attempted to quit e-cigarettes (AOR = 1.70). Having friends who use e-cigarettes (AOR = 0.29) and higher smoking dependence (AOR = 0.55) were associated with a lower likelihood of quitting. Recent quit attempts and e-cigarette use among close social network members may explain the short-term transitions, though longer follow-up is needed to assess sustained smoking cessation.

Latent Class Analysis of Polysubstance Use and Sexual Risk Behaviors among Men Who Have Sex with Men Attending Sexual Health Clinics in Mexico City.

Men who have sex with men (MSM) are more likely to use drugs and other substances compared to their heterosexual peers. No studies have evaluated patterns of substance use among MSM adults in Mexico. We used latent class analysis (LCA) to identify MSM subgroups with specific substance use patterns and their associations with sexual behaviors. METHODS: Data from 1850 adult MSM were collected at HIV clinics in Mexico City between September 2018 and December 2019. The structural equation modeling approach was used to estimate a LC model to identify patterns of substance use by self-report of substance use (i.e., cigarette smoking, alcohol, and drugs). To evaluate LC membership, we included HIV status, condomless anal sex (CAS), and serosorting, while controlling for demographic variables. RESULTS: 30.3% were under the age of 22. Alcohol use in last 30 days (76.2%), binge drinking (29.2%), marijuana (29.4%), sex-drugs (23.9%), stimulants (13.7%), and depressants (6.3%). MSM reported engaging in CAS (55.9%) and serosorting (13.5%) behaviors, and 40% reported being HIV positive. LCA indicated three general categories of MSM substance users: Class 1 (49.0%), Class 2 (29.8%), and Class 3 (20.4%). Members of Class 3 were younger: 23-28 age years (aOR = 1.86) and 29-33 age years (aOR = 1.86), more educated: completed graduate studies (aOR = 1.60), had a high probability of polysubstance use and were more likely to engage in CAS and serosorting. CONCLUSIONS: Attempts to detect alcohol and problematic use of substances are needed for MSM followed by culturally competent approaches that address alcohol and drug use disorders.

Why Smoke Flavor Capsule Cigarettes? Preferences and Perceptions Among Adult Smokers in Mexico.

INTRODUCTION: Flavor capsule cigarettes are rapidly gaining global market share, particularly in Latin America; however, little is known about consumer profiles and perceptions since the diffusion of this product innovation has become more widespread. AIMS AND METHODS: This paper compares profiles and perceptions of smokers who prefer flavor capsule cigarettes and those who do not in Mexico. We analyzed data from six online surveys of adult Mexican smokers (n = 4488) from 2018-2020. Participants identified their preferred brand variety characteristics (no capsule; one capsule; two capsules), and reported perceptions of their brand varieties' flavor, smoothness, harmfulness, and whether they smoke to control their appetite. Separate multinomial logistic models regressed preferred cigarette type on sociodemographic and smoking-related variables, as well as perceived benefits on preferred cigarette type, adjusting for covariates. RESULTS: Most participants preferred capsule cigarettes (single capsule = 47.5%; double capsule = 12.9%). Flavor capsule users reported that their preferred varieties mostly tasted like menthol/mint (59% of single capsule users and 23% of double capsule users), cucumber (12% and 27%, respectively) or berries (10% and 22%, respectively). Females were more likely than males to prefer either single or double capsule cigarettes (AOR = 2.26 and 2.01, respectively). Preference for flavor capsules was also higher among younger smokers, e-cigarette users, those who smoke less frequently, and those who recently tried or plan to quit. Smokers who preferred capsules were more likely than non-capsule smokers to perceive their cigarettes as smoother, less harmful, and to smoke to control their appetite. CONCLUSIONS: The high prevalence of capsule use and widespread perceptions of the benefits of capsules over traditional cigarettes may help explain why tobacco control policies have not reduced smoking prevalence in Mexico. IMPLICATIONS: Flavor capsules are rapidly growing in popularity in many countries around the world, including Mexico. This study found that more Mexican adult smokers prefer brand varieties with capsules (60%) than without capsules (40%), that flavor capsule use strongly correlates with menthol cigarette use, and that perceived flavors of capsules range widely. Flavor capsule smokers have more positive smoking expectancies (eg, lower risk perceptions, dietary control) than noncapsule smokers. Capsules appeal particularly to women, young adults, less frequent smokers, and those who recently tried to quit. Policies should consider banning flavors in cigarettes, including capsules and other filter innovations.

Heated tobacco product use, its correlates, and reasons for use among Mexican smokers.

BACKGROUND: Little is known about the use of novel heated tobacco products (HTPs) in low- and middle-income countries. We examined among smokers in Mexico the prevalence and correlates of HTP use, as well as reasons for using HTPs. METHODS: We analyzed data from five surveys (November 2019-March 2021) of an open cohort of adult smokers (n = 6500), including an oversample of those who also use e-cigarettes. Mixed-effects multinomial logistic models were used to estimate associations between study variables and current HTP use or prior HTP trial relative to never trying HTPs. RESULTS: The weighted prevalence of current HTP use was 1.1%. Independent correlates of current HTP use included smoking frequency, intention to quit, e-cigarette use, having partners/family-members who use e-cigarettes, friends who use HTPs, and exposure to HTP information inside/outside tobacco shops. Having partners/family members who smoke and not knowing about the harm of HTPs relative to cigarettes were associated with lower likelihood of current HTP use. Having tried HTPs was more likely among light daily smokers, those with family who use HTPs and exposure to HTP information outside shops and on newspapers/magazines. Among current users, the top reasons for using HTPs were greater social acceptability (50.6%) and lower perceived harm (34.9%) relative to cigarettes. CONCLUSIONS: Uptake of HTPs appears relatively low among Mexican smokers, and correlates of use are similar to those for e-cigarette use. Further research is needed to determine if HTPs use promotes or impedes smoking cessation, given current HTP users are also likely to use various nicotine products.

Strategies to enhance the effects of pictorial warnings for cigarettes: results from a discrete choice experiment.

AIMS: To measure the effects of changing attributes of pictorial health warning labels (HWLs) on cigarette packs in a country that has already implemented pictorial HWLs. MEASURES: For each choice set, participants were presented with two cigarette packs and asked the following three questions: (1) 'If only these two cigarette packs were available, which would you buy?'; (2) 'Each of these two packs has warnings on the front and back about the health effects of smoking. Which of these warnings best informs you about the dangers from smoking?'; and (3) 'Which warning most makes you think about quitting smoking?'. As recommended for best practices in discrete choice experiments, each of these questions was followed by an 'opt-out' question for participants to indicate whether they really believed there was a difference between the options presented (i.e. 'Would you really choose one of them?'; 'Do you really think that either of these warnings informs you about dangers from smoking?'; or 'Do you really think that either of these warnings would make you think about quitting smoking?', respectively). Each choice set could be viewed for as long as the participant wished. For each choice question (i.e. willingness to buy, informative, motivating to quit), the pack chosen was coded as 1 and the other pack as 0, with both packs being given a value of 0 if the participant 'opted out'. DESIGN: A within-subject discrete choice experiment that involved systematic manipulation of pictorial HWL size [75 versus 30% (current policy)]; inclusion of imagery on the back of the pack [versus none (current policy)]; and color formatting [black on yellow versus yellow on black (current policy)]. SETTING: Mexico, on-line panel. PARTICIPANTS: Adult smokers (n = 705). MEASUREMENTS: For each choice set, participants selected one pack as having the most informative HWL about smoking harms, the one that makes them think the most about quitting and the one they were most willing to buy. We assessed the independent and interactive effects of HWL attributes on choices. FINDINGS: Larger HWL size on the pack front (75 versus 30%) and inclusion of a pictorial image on the pack back were both independently associated with lower willingness to buy a pack [b = -0.228, standard error (SE) = 0.023 and -0.089, SE = 0.016, respectively] and greater perception of an HWL as informative (b = 0.214, SE = 0.022, and 0.191, SE = 0.017, respectively) and motivating to quit (b = 0.251, SE = 0.023 and 0.194, SE = 0.017, respectively). HWL with black text and yellow background were perceived as less informative (b = -0.037, SE = 0.016) and less motivating to quit (b = -0.032, SE = 0.015) compared with yellow text on a black background. CONCLUSIONS: Among adult Mexican smokers, pictorial health warning labels on cigarette packages that are larger or cover both sides of the pack appear more effective at lowering purchase intentions and increasing risk perceptions and motivation to quit than smaller health warning labels or health warning labels with imagery only on the pack front.

Exposure to e-cigarette advertising and provaping websites, and the social acceptability of their use among nicotine users / Exposición a la publicidad de cigarrillos electrónicos y sitios web que promueven el vapeo y la aceptabilidad social de su uso entre los consumidores de nicotina / Exposição a propaganda de cigarros eletrônicos e sites pró-vaping e aceitação social de seu uso entre usuários de nicotina

ABSTRACT Objectives. To evaluate the prevalence of exposure to Internet communications on and advertising of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and their association with perceptions of the social acceptability of e-cigarettes in Mexico. Methods. Data were analyzed from eight surveys (2018-2021) of an online sample of Mexican adult (> 18 years) smokers and dual users (of combustible and electronic cigarettes). Self-reported exposure to e-cigarette advertising across various marketing channels was assessed, as well as visits to e-cigarette websites. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between perceptions of the social acceptability of e-cigarette use and level of advertising exposure and visits to e-cigarette websites. Results. The Internet and outside e-cigarette stores were where exposure to advertising most occurred, as reported by 47.4% and 46.8% of respondents, respectively. Respondents who noticed e-cigarette advertisements on the Internet (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.43, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.25, 1.63), outside e-cigarette stores (adjusted OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.14, 1.50), and in temporary outlets (adjusted OR 1.16, 95% CI 1.01, 1.34), and those who visited e-cigarette websites (adjusted OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.25, 1.76) were more likely to perceive e-cigarettes as socially acceptable. Noticing advertisements across more channels was also associated with higher perceived social acceptability of e-cigarette use. Conclusions. Being exposed to e-cigarette marketing, either online or through traditional marketing channels, is associated with perceived social acceptability of e-cigarette use, as is contact with provaping sites. Regulatory options to avoid the proliferation of promotional websites disguised as opinion or user sites need to be considered.

RESUMEN Objetivos. Evaluar la prevalencia de la exposición a las comunicaciones por Internet y la publicidad de los cigarros electrónicos (e-cigarettes), así como su asociación con las percepciones sobre la aceptabilidad social de los cigarrillos electrónicos en México. Métodos. Se analizaron los datos de ocho encuestas (2018-2021) de una muestra en línea de adultos mexicanos (mayores de 18 años) fumadores y consumidores dobles (cigarrillos combustibles y cigarrillos electrónicos). Se evaluaron la exposición —referida por los propios encuestados— a la publicidad de cigarrillos electrónicos en varios canales de comercialización y las visitas a sitios web de cigarrillos electrónicos. Se realizó un análisis de regresión logística para evaluar la relación entre la percepción de aceptabilidad social del consumo de cigarrillos electrónicos, por una parte, y el nivel de exposición publicitaria y las visitas a sitios web de cigarrillos electrónicos, por la otra. Resultados. La mayor exposición a la publicidad se dio en las tiendas virtuales y físicas donde se venden cigarrillos electrónicos, según lo notificado por 47,4% y 46,8% de los encuestados, respectivamente. Los encuestados que observaron anuncios de cigarrillos electrónicos en Internet (razón de probabilidades ajustada [OR ajustada] 1,43; intervalos de confianza [IC] del 95 %: 1,25; 1,63), en tiendas físicas de cigarrillos electrónicos (OR ajustada 1,31; IC del 95 %: 1,14; 1,50) y en puntos de venta temporales (OR ajustada 1,16; IC del 95 %: 1,01; 1,34), y los que visitaron sitios web de cigarrillos electrónicos (OR ajustada 1,48; IC del 95 %: 1,25; 1,76) fueron más propensos a percibir los cigarrillos electrónicos como socialmente aceptables. Asimismo, se asoció el hecho de observar anuncios en más canales con la percepción de una mayor aceptabilidad social del consumo de cigarrillos electrónicos. Conclusiones. La exposición a la publicidad de los cigarrillos electrónicos, ya sea en línea o por los canales tradicionales, así como el contacto con sitios web que promueven el vapeo, se relaciona con la percepción acerca de la aceptabilidad social del consumo de cigarrillos electrónicos. Deberían considerarse alternativas regulatorias para evitar la proliferación de sitios web promocionales disfrazados de sitios de opinión o de usuarios.

RESUMO Objetivos. Avaliar a prevalência da exposição a comunicações e propagandas sobre cigarros eletrônicos na internet e sua associação com percepções de aceitação social dos cigarros eletrônicos no México. Métodos. Foram analisados dados de oito pesquisas (2018 a 2021) de uma amostra on-line de adultos mexicanos (maiores de 18 anos) fumantes e usuários duais (de cigarros combustíveis e eletrônicos). Avaliou-se a exposição autorrelatada à propaganda de cigarros eletrônicos em diversos canais de marketing, além de visitas a sites de cigarros eletrônicos. Foi utilizada uma análise de regressão logística para avaliar a associação entre percepções de aceitação social do uso de cigarros eletrônicos e o nível de exposição a propagandas e visitas a sites de cigarros eletrônicos. Resultados. A maior exposição a propaganda ocorreu na internet e no exterior de tabacarias que vendem cigarros eletrônicos, conforme relatado por 47,4% e 46,8% dos respondentes, respectivamente. Os respondentes que haviam notado propagandas de cigarros eletrônicos na internet (razão de chances [RC] ajustada: 1,43; intervalo de confiança [IC] de 95%: 1,25-1,63), no exterior de tabacarias que vendem cigarros eletrônicos (RC ajustada: 1,31; IC de 95%: 1,14-1,50) e em pontos temporários de venda (RC ajustada: 1,16; IC de 95%: 1,01-1,34), e os respondentes que visitavam sites de cigarros eletrônicos (RC ajustada: 1,48; IC de 95%: 1,25-1,76) eram mais propensos a achar que os cigarros eletrônicos eram socialmente aceitáveis. A observação de propaganda em um maior número de canais também estava associada à percepção de maior aceitação social do uso de cigarros eletrônicos. Conclusões. A exposição ao marketing de cigarros eletrônicos, seja on-line ou por meio de canais tradicionais de marketing, está associada à percepção de aceitação social do uso de cigarros eletrônicos, assim como o contato com sites pró-vaping. Devem-se cogitar opções regulatórias para evitar a proliferação de sites promocionais disfarçados de sites de opinião ou de usuários.

Similarities and Differences in Substance Use Patterns Among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Heterosexual Mexican Adult Smokers.

Purpose: This study aimed to characterize the patterns of smoking, e-cigarette use, other substance use (alcohol and marijuana), and depression by sexual orientation in a sample of Mexican adult smokers. Methods: Data came from a 2018-2020 (six waves) online survey of adult smokers, recruited from a commercial research panel (92.5% heterosexual, n = 4786; 3.1% lesbian/gay, n = 160; and 4.4% bisexual, n = 229). After stratifying the data by sex, logistic, multinomial, and linear logistic regression models were estimated (depending on the outcome), including as independent variables sexual orientation (i.e., gay/lesbian, bisexual, heterosexual = Reference), age, education, household income, and wave. Results: Being a gay male was independently associated with greater smoking dependence (ß = 0.20; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.02 to 0.39), greater likelihood of preference for flavored capsule cigarettes (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.10, 95% CI: 1.33 to 3.28), and depression diagnosis (AOR = 2.85, 95% CI: 1.64 to 4.95). Bisexual males had higher e-cigarette dependence (ß = 0.37; 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.68, among dual users only) and were more likely to have been diagnosed with depression (AOR = 2.34, 95% CI: 1.30 to 4.18). Lesbian females were more likely to prefer menthol cigarettes (AOR = 3.32, 95% CI: 1.60 to 6.86), to have used marijuana more than once (AOR = 3.23, 95% CI: 1.83 to 5.72), and to have depressive symptoms (AOR = 1.85, 95% CI: 1.04 to 3.29). Bisexual females had a greater likelihood of depressive symptoms (AOR = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.14 to 2.56) and depression diagnosis (AOR = 2.22, 95% CI: 1.43 to 3.42). Conclusion: Lesbian, gay, and bisexual adult smokers in Mexico appear more likely than heterosexual adult smokers to report having depression. Substance use and depression among sexual minority populations need to be addressed further.

Smoking Behaviors, Mental Health, and Risk Perceptions during the Beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic among Mexican Adult Smokers.

Mexico is one of the countries most affected by COVID-19. Studies have found that smoking behaviors have been impacted by the pandemic as well; however, results have varied across studies, and it remains unclear what is causing the changes. This study of an open cohort of smokers recruited from a consumer panel (n = 2753) examined changes in cigarettes per day (CPD), daily vs. non-daily smoking, recent quit attempts, perceived stress, depression, and perceived severity of COVID-19 at two points during the pandemic: March and July 2020. Differences in CPD between waves were estimated with Poisson regression using generalized estimating equations (GEE). Differences in perceived stress were estimated with linear regression using GEE, and differences in recent quit attempts, depression, and perceived severity of COVID-19 were estimated using separate logistic regression GEE models. Rates of depression were higher in July compared to March (AOR = 1.55, 95% C.I. 1.31-1.85), and the likelihood of recent quit attempt was lower in July compared to March (AOR = 0.85, 95% C.I. 0.75-0.98). There was no statistically significant change in CPD, daily smoking, or perceived stress. Perceived COVID-19 severity for oneself increased significantly (AOR: 1.24, 95% C.I. 1.02-1.52); however, the perceived COVID-19 severity for smokers remained constant. Our study suggests that as the COVID-19 pandemic expanded in Mexico, smoking frequency remained stable, and quit attempts decreased, even as adult smokers increasingly perceived infection with COVID-19 for themselves as severe. These results can aid in the development of health communication strategies to educate smokers about their risk for COVID-19, potentially capitalizing on concerns that stem from this syndemic of communicable and smoking-related non-communicable disease.

Profile and patterns of dual use of e-cigarettes and combustible cigarettes among Mexican adults / Perfil y patrones de uso dual de cigarrillos electrónicos y cigarrillos combustibles en adultos mexicanos

Abstract: Objective: To describe the profile and patterns of dual uses (n=954) and exclusive cigarette users (n=2 070) and determine the correlates of more frequent e-cigarette use among dual users and their reasons for e-cigarette use. Materials and methods: An online survey of Mexican adult smokers. Logistic models regressed dual-use (exclusive smoking vs. dual user) on sociodemographic, smoking variables and substance use behaviors. We conducted censorial binomial models to estimate the correlates of frequency of e-cigarette use among dual users. Results: Dual users were younger had higher education (AOR=2.22) and higher levels of smoking dependence (AOR=1.31), preferred cigarettes with flavor capsules (AOR=1.58) and had recently attempted to quit smoking (AOR=1.38). Marijuana use and being daily smokers were correlates of higher frequency of use among dual users. Conclusion: Dual users had a higher risk profile than exclusive smokers, which was even more prominent in dual-users who used e-cigarettes frequently.

Resumen: Objetivo: Describir el perfil de los usuarios duales y fumadores exclusivos, así como los factores asociados con la frecuencia de uso de cigarro electrónico. Material y métodos: Se realizaron modelos logísticos de una encuesta en línea de fumadores adultos para estimar asociaciones de usuarios duales (fumador exclusivo vs. usuario dual) sobre variables sociodemográficas, tabaquismo y otras sustancias. Adicionalmente, mediante modelos binomiales censurados se evaluaron los factores asociados con la frecuencia de consumo de cigarro electrónico. Resultados: Los usuarios duales fueron más jóvenes, con mayor educación (AOR=2.22), tenían mayores niveles de dependencia de tabaquismo (AOR=1.31), preferirían usar cigarros con cápsulas de sabor (AOR=1.58) y tuvieron una mayor proporción de intentos de dejar de fumar (AOR=1.38). El consumo de marihuana y fumar diario se asoció con una mayor frecuencia de consumo de cigarro electrónico. Conclusión: El uso dual se asoció con un perfil de riesgo más alto; este perfil es más prominente en usuarios duales que usan cigarros electrónicos con mayor frecuencia.

La escala de afluencia familiar en la investigación sobre inequidades sociales en salud en adolescentes latinoamericanos.

Objetivo. Evaluar la escala de afluencia familiar (EAF), que consiste en el autorreporte sobre número de computadoras y automóviles del hogar, dormitorio propio y vacaciones, como indicador de nivel socioeconómico (NSE) familiar en adolescentes escolarizados de tres países latinoamericanos. Material y métodos. Fueron encuestados 14 717 estudiantes de secundaria de Argentina, México y Guatemala. Se evaluó la asociación de la EAF con otros indicadores de NSE a nivel familiar (nivel educativo parental, posesión de bienes y servicios tecnológicos) y de entorno escolar (índice de marginación, escuela pública o privada y matrícula escolar). Resultados. La EAF mostró menos datos faltantes que los otros indicadores familiares de NSE. Además, mostró asociaciones en la dirección esperada con los otros indicadores de NSE. Conclusiones. La EAF parece constituir un indicador válido tanto de la riqueza material familiar como del NSE a nivel de la escuela, útil para estudios sobre inequidades en salud en adolescentes latinoamericanos.

Profile and patterns of dual use of e-cigarettes and combustible cigarettes among Mexican adults.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the profile and patterns of dual uses (n=954) and exclusive cigarette users (n=2 070) and determine the correlates of more frequent e-cigarette use among dual users and their reasons for e-cigarette use. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An online survey of Mexican adult smokers. Logistic models regressed dual-use (exclusive smoking vs. dual user) on sociodemographic, smoking varia-bles and substance use behaviors. We conducted censorial binomial models to estimate the correlates of frequency of e-cigarette use among dual users. RESULTS: Dual users were younger had higher education (AOR=2.22) and higher levels of smoking dependence (AOR=1.31), preferred cigarettes with flavor capsules (AOR=1.58) and had recently attempted to quit smoking (AOR=1.38). Marijuana use and being daily smokers were correlates of higher frequency of use among dual users. CONCLUSION: Dual users had a higher risk profile than exclusive smokers, which was even more prominent in dual-users who used e-cigarettes frequently.

La escala de afluencia familiar en la investigación sobre inequidades sociales en salud en adolescentes latinoamericanos / The family affluence scale for research on social inequities in Latin American adolescents health

Resumen: Objetivo: Evaluar la escala de afluencia familiar (EAF), que consiste en el autorreporte sobre número de computadoras y automóviles del hogar, dormitorio propio y vacaciones, como indicador de nivel socioeconómico (NSE) familiar en adolescentes escolarizados de tres países latinoamericanos. Material y métodos: Fueron encuestados 14 717 estudiantes de secundaria de Argentina, México y Guatemala. Se evaluó la asociación de la EAF con otros indicadores de NSE a nivel familiar (nivel educativo parental, posesión de bienes y servicios tecnológicos) y de entorno escolar (índice de marginación, escuela pública o privada y matrícula escolar). Resultados: La EAF mostró menos datos faltantes que los otros indicadores familiares de NSE. Además, mostró asociaciones en la dirección esperada con los otros indicadores de NSE. Conclusiones: La EAF parece constituir un indicador válido tanto de la riqueza material familiar como del NSE a nivel de la escuela, útil para estudios sobre inequidades en salud en adolescentes latinoamericanos.

Abstract: Objective: To assess the family affluence scale (FAS), which consists of self-reported number of computers and cars in the home, having one's own bedroom and holidays, as a family socioeconomic status (SES) indicator for adolescents in three Latin American countries. Materials and methods: 14 717 secondary students from Argentina, Mexico and Guatemala were surveyed. The association between FAS and other SES indicators at familiar level (parent education and owning of technological goods and services) and school level (marginalization index, public or private school, and school fee) were evaluated. Results: The FAS was associated in the expected direction with all other NSE indicators. Conclusions: The FAS seems to be a valid indicator of the material wealth of adolescent families, as well as of school SES, and it can be used in studies on health inequities in Latin American adolescents.

Assessing cigarette packaging and labelling policy effects on early adolescents: results from a discrete choice experiment.

INTRODUCTION: Cigarette packaging is a primary channel for tobacco advertising, particularly in countries where traditional channels are restricted. The current study evaluated the independent and interactive effects of cigarette packaging and health warning label (HWL) characteristics on perceived appeal of cigarette brands for early adolescents in Mexico. METHODS: A discrete choice experiment (DCE) was conducted with early adolescents, aged 12-14 years (n=4251). The DCE involved a 3×25 design with six attributes: brand (Marlboro, Pall Mall, Camel), tobacco flavour (regular, menthol), flavour capsule (none, 1 or 2 capsules), presence of descriptive terms, branding (vs plain packaging), HWL size (30%, 75%) and HWL content (emphysema vs mouth cancer). Participants viewed eight sets of three cigarette packs and selected a pack in each set that: (1) is most/least attractive, (2) they are most/least interested in trying or (3) is most/least harmful, with a no difference option. RESULTS: Participants perceived packs as less attractive, less interesting to try and more harmful if they had plain packaging or had larger HWLs, with the effect being most pronounced when plain packaging is combined with larger HWLs. For attractiveness, plain packaging had the biggest influence on choice (43%), followed by HWL size (19%). Interest in trying was most influenced by brand name (34%), followed by plain packaging (29%). Perceived harm was most influenced by brand name (30%), followed by HWL size (29%). CONCLUSION: Increasing the size of HWLs and implementing plain packaging appear to reduce the appeal of cigarettes to early adolescents. Countries should adopt these policies to minimise the impact of tobacco marketing.

Adult Smokers' Awareness and Interest in Trying Heated Tobacco Products: Perspectives from Mexico, where HTPs and E-Cigarettes Are Banned.

BACKGROUND: We evaluated smokers' perceptions of heated tobacco products (HTPs) in Mexico, where industry publically lobbied to introduce HTPs into this country that banned both HTPs and e-cigarettes. METHODS: Online surveys (November 2018 to July 2019) were analyzed from adults who only smoked cigarettes (n = 2091) or who smoked and used e-cigarettes ("dual users"n = 1128). Logistic models regressed HTP awareness, interest to trying HTPs, and having seen HTPs for sale (only among aware participants) on sociodemographics and tobacco-related variables. RESULTS: Of the 17.1% who were aware of HTPs, 52.7% reported having seen HTPs for sale. Of all respondents, 75% were somewhat or very interested in trying HTPs. Compared to their counterparts, more frequent smokers, dual users, those exposed to online e-cigarette ads, and those with friends who used e-cigarettes were both more aware of and interested in trying HTPs. Greater awareness was also associated with higher education, recent attempts to quit, receipt of email e-cigarette ads, and smoking among friends and family. Seeing HTPs for sale was higher for those who recently attempted to quit, were exposed to e-cigarette ads online or by email, or had friends who used e-cigarettes. CONCLUSION: Interest in HTPs is high among smokers in Mexico, which already has a large black market for illegal e-cigarettes. HTPs use should be monitored in this context, especially given the public health impacts of HTPs are unclear.

Smoking trends in Mexico, 2002-2016: before and after the ratification of the WHO's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.

INTRODUCTION: Mexico was the first Latin American country to ratify the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) in 2004, after which it implemented some key FCTC policies (e.g., taxes, smoke-free, pictorial warnings and ad bans). This study assessed trends in the prevalence of current, daily and non-daily smoking in Mexico before and after the implementation of key FCTC policies. METHODS: Data were analysed from two comparable, nationally representative surveys (i.e., the National Survey on Addictions 2002, 2011 and 2016, and the Global Adult Tobacco Survey 2009 and 2015). The pooled sample comprised 100 302 persons aged 15-65 years. Changes in the prevalence of current, daily and non-daily smoking were assessed. RESULTS: From 2002 to 2016, the prevalence of current smoking fell 11% in relative terms (from 21.5% to 19.0%). The decrease was registered between 2002 and 2009, and after that, a slight increase was observed (from 16.5% in 2009 to 19% in 2016). The prevalence of daily smoking decreased by about 50% between 2002 and 2016 (from 13.5% to 7.0%) with most of the decrease occurring by 2009. Conversely, the prevalence of non-daily smoking increased by 35% between 2009 and 2016 (from 8.8% to 11.9%). CONCLUSIONS: Full implementation of the FCTC is necessary to further reduce smoking. Specific interventions may be needed to target non-daily smokers, who now comprise more than half of current smokers in Mexico.

Health Professionals' Counseling about Electronic Cigarettes for Smokers and Vapers in a Country That Bans the Sales and Marketing of Electronic Cigarettes.

This study describes the prevalence and correlates of adult smokers' discussions about electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) with health professionals (HPs), including whether these discussions may lead smokers and vapers to use e-cigarettes for smoking cessation. METHODS: We analyzed data from an online survey of Mexican smokers recruited from a consumer panel for marketing research. Participants who had visited an HP in the prior four months (n = 1073) were asked about discussions of e-cigarettes during that visit and whether this led them to try to quit. Logistic models regressed these variables on socio-demographics and tobacco use-related variables. RESULTS: Smokers who also used e-cigarettes (i.e., dual users) were more likely than exclusive smokers to have discussed e-cigarettes with their HP (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.96; 95% C.I. 2.73, 5.74), as were those who had recently attempted to quit smoking (AOR = 1.89; 95% C.I. 1.33, 2.7). Of smokers who had discussed e-cigarettes, 53.3% reported that the discussion led them to use e-cigarettes in their quit attempt. Also, dual users (AOR = 2.6; 95% C.I. 1.5, 4.5) and daily smokers (>5 cigarettes per day) (AOR = 3.62; 95% C.I. 1.9, 6.8) were more likely to report being led by their HP to use e-cigarettes in the quit attempt compared to exclusive smokers and non-daily smokers, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Discussions between HP and smokers about e-cigarettes were relatively common in Mexico, where e-cigarettes are banned. These discussions appear driven by the use of e-cigarettes, as well as by greater smoking frequency and intentions to quit smoking.