The Usage And Associated Factors Of Alternative Tobacco Products Among School-Going Youth In Central Appalachia

Objective. To examine alternative tobacco product (ATP) use and associated factors among middle school students in Appalachian Tennessee. Method. Data (2015-2016; N=573) from school-based tobacco surveys in 11 middle schools in Appalachian Tennessee were analyzed. Multiple logistic regression model described factors associated with ATP use. Results. More than one-tenth (13.2%) of participants have ever used ATPs. Approximately 9%, 7%, 6%, and 2% of participants have ever used e-cigarettes, cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, and little cigars or cigarillos, respectively. The following were significantly associated with ever use of ATPs: believing tobacco users have more friends, owning tobacco-branded item(s), living with a tobacco user, having ever smoked cigarettes, and living in homes where smoking is allowed. Conclusion. More than one in 10 of participants have ever used at least one ATP, and association with desirable objects and situations may promote ATP use. Interventions should seek to reduce these positive images and make all tobacco products unappealing.