Co-designing a vaping cessation program for Australian young adults: A conceptual model.

Introduction: Australian young adults (YA) report difficulties in quitting vaping. This study sought to understand what a vaping cessation program should look like from the perspective of current and former vapers, and professionals/experts involved in this health space, to inform the development of a conceptual model.

Methods: Data collection was informed by Social Cognitive Theory using co-design methodology to explore vaping cessation. Interactive workshops and semi-structured interviews were held online between March 2023-January 2024, with data from participants' narratives and written materials thematically analysed.

Results: YAs (18-24 years) identifying as current or former vapers (n=15) and health professionals/experts'(n=13) insights informed the model framework, incorporating three main elements based on environmental, personal and behavioural factors shaping vaping cessation. Four design considerations were identified; the program needs to be affordable, accessible, appropriate and adaptable. YAs expressed a strong preference to share their quitting journey with peers, endorsing a digital forum providing a hybrid framework of support.

Conclusions: Vaping cessation is nuanced and complex requiring a multi-faceted approach targeted to the specific needs of the young adult population.

Implications: The findings can be used to inform the development of a vaping cessation program tailored to young adults in Australia and other similar contexts. Young adults perceived sharing the quitting journey and being inspired by the lived experience of others as critical components for successful vaping cessation. Social Cognitive Theory is demonstrated to be a valuable behaviour change framework for understanding vaping cessation and should be considered in future research of intervention development.