134: Patterns and Associated Factors with E-Cigarette Use among Canadian Adolescents

Electronic-cigarettes (e-cigarettes) have been marketed as a smoking cessation tool. Use amongst adolescents has not been well-described. To evaluate the prevalence, motivations, and risk factors for use of e-cigarettes in adolescents. A population-based, cross-sectional universal screening study was performed in the geographically and administratively defined Niagara Region, Ontario, Canada. Data were collected from all grade-9 students through the Heart Niagara Inc. Healthy Heart Schools' Program (2013–2014 school year). Questionnaires assessed cigarette, e-cigarette, and other tobacco use. Household income was assessed through the 2011 Canadian census. N = 2367 students (54% male, 14.6±0.5 years old) answered the questionnaire. Within the last month, 66 (3%) students reported smoking. Most students (1599, 70%) had heard of e-cigarettes, with 380 (24%) learning from a store sign/display. E-cigarette use was reported by 238 (11%) students, with 134 (56%) having used it once and 18 (8%) reporting frequent/daily use. The majority (171, 72%) tried it because it was “cool/fun/new” while 14 (6%) used it to help smoke less or quit. Use was greater amongst males, those whose family or friends smoked, and in those with cigarette or other tobacco use (Table 1). Self-identified fair/poor health rating (OR 1.9 (95% CI 1.2–3.0, P<0.001)) and high stress level (OR 1.7 (95% CI 1.1–2.7, P<0.001)) were associated with increased odds of e-cigarette use. E-cigarette use was associated with lower average household incomes (33.4±8.4 vs. 36.1±10.7 × $1000, P=0.001). E-cigarette use is common amongst Canadian adolescents. Smoking reduction and cessation do not appear to be motivating factors regarding its use. E-cigarette use is associated with individual, family, and friend tobacco use, among other associations. These findings support the implementation of strict regulations to help reduce use amongst Canadian adolescents.