BACKGROUND: E-cigarettes (ECs) are increasingly viewed as a potential nicotine replacement strategy for adults. However, concerns remain regarding their efficacy as a smoking cessation tool, particularly among young adults. Data analysis is necessary to guide debates among policymakers and stakeholders in South Korea and beyond.
METHODS: This study utilized data (n=22559) from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES). We analyzed prevalence estimates of single-use e-cigarettes (EC), and traditional cigarettes (TC) among adults aged 20 to 49, accounting for cluster weights. Logistic regression models were employed to examine the association between past smoking cessation experience and intention of re-attempts to quit smoking within the next six months. Covariates included age, sex, household income status (five levels), and nicotine dependence levels (i.e., the time to the first cigarette after waking: ≤5, ≤30, ≤60, or >60 minutes). Statistical analysis was conducted using SAS survey procedures.
RESULTS: The prevalence of single-user was as follows: EC (3.0%), TC (27.8%) for male and 0.5% and 4.6% for females respectively. In the adjusted logistic regression model, among male TC-only users, prior cessation experience increased the likelihood of re-attempting cessation within six months (OR: 6.1, 95% CI: 3.9–9.4), compared to those without cessation experience. However, among male EC-only users, prior cessation experience showed no significant association (OR: 4.7, 95% CI: 0.6–37.4) after adjusting for confounders by stratifying age, house income level, nicotine dependence level.
CONCLUSIONS:

Unlike TC-only users, past cessation attempts among EC-only users were not associated with re-attempts in the near future. Implementing strong e-cigarette regulations may help reduce continuous use among young adults and limit the future population-level burden of smoking.