Prevalence of electronic cigarette use and its determinants in us persons of Hispanic/Latino background: The Hispanic community health study / study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL)

Objective

To determine the prevalence and determinants of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) use among Hispanic/Latino adults from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL).

Methods

Cross-sectional data collected between the years 2015–2017 were analyzed to assess ENDS use (ever (current: use ≤ past 30 days; former: use > past 30 days) and never) among 11,623 adults (mean age 47 years±0.3 years; 52% women). Weighted prevalence estimates were reported, and age-adjusted logistic regression models were used to examine associations between sociodemographic and clinical exposures with ENDS use.

Results

The prevalence of current and former ENDS use was 2.0% and 10.4%, respectively. Having ever used ENDS was associated with prevalent coronary artery disease. Current ENDS use was higher in males and associated with higher education, English language preference, and Puerto Rican background compared with nonsmokers and cigarette-only smokers (all p<0.05).

Conclusions

Hispanic/Latino individuals who are young adults, male, US-born, and have high acculturation were more likely to report current ENDS use. These findings could inform preventive and regulatory interventions targeted to Hispanics/Latinos.