Factors That Influence Cannabis Vaping Habits of College Students

Abstract

Background: Electronic cigarettes, also referred to as e-cigarettes or electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), are devices that heat a liquid substance into an aerosol which the user inhales. Typically, the liquid includes nicotine, flavoring, and a carrier fluid such as propylene glycol or vegetable glycerin. When electronic cigarettes became widely available in the US market in 2007, they were intended for nicotine consumption, and briefly marketed as tobacco cessation tools. Within certain subcultures of young adults, vaping quickly became popular. A growing number of studies indicate that people are using these devices to inhale substances other than nicotine, referred to as ‘other substance use in e-cigarettes’ (OSUE) by Kenne and colleagues. Some of these other substances include synthetic cannabinoids, methamphetamine, 3-4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and other amphetamines, cocaine, and heroin. While national prevalence data are lacking, cannabis appears to be the most prevalent OSUE, as Jones et al report that 29% of college students vaped cannabis in their lifetime. College students appear to vape cannabis at higher rates than young adults in general, only 19% of whom have engaged in this activity within their lifetime. The purpose of this study is to examine the attitudes and perceptions of college undergraduates regarding cannabis vaping.

Methods: Twenty-one, predominantly male (71.4%; mean age 22, SD 2.09), undergraduate college students who reported vaping cannabis in the past 30 d were interviewed via telephone to determine their attitudes and perceptions regarding cannabis vaping. The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim, then coded for common themes.

Results: Inductive analysis uncovered six primary themes and eighteen subthemes. Main themes included 1) Convenience, 2) Discreetness, 3) Euphoric Experience, 4) Social Acceptability, 5) Health and Safety, and 6) COVID-19 Pandemic Impact.

Conclusions: College students who use cannabis tend to both vape and use combustible methods, depending upon social and physical environment. Typically, they underestimate the risks associated with cannabis use and vaping. Additional research is needed to further examine the behaviors and attitudes surrounding cannabis vaping among college undergraduates, as well as the development of interventions specific to this demographic.