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VSU TCORS: Quantitative and Qualitative Methods for MRTP Evaluation

Principal Investigator: Aashir Nasim

Funding Mechanism: National Institutes of Health- TCORS Grant

ID number: 1P50DA036105-01

Award Date: 9/30/2013

Institution: Virginia Commonwealth University

New evaluation methods are needed to help explain patterns of modified risk tobacco product (MRTP) consumption and prevalence. This project will demonstrate how a mixed methods approach can be used to generate empirically-based, descriptive models of MRTP-related attitudes, beliefs, motivations and perceived effects (including adverse events) associated with product use and intentional misuse. Specific aims are: (1) to characterize and describe the attitudes and beliefs, motivations, and perceived effects associated with e-cigarette use behaviors; and (2) to examine methods of unorthodox e-cigarette use behaviors. Concept mapping, an integrated mixed method participatory research approach, will be used to describe user attitudes and beliefs regarding e-cigarettes, motivations for e-cigarette use; and perceived beneficial and adverse effects of e-cigarette use. The study will include 500 e-cigarette users (aged 18 and older) who will complete online activities that involve brainstorming statements in response to a prompt about e-cigarette use, sorting these statements into conceptually similar categories, and then rating the importance of each statement. Investigators will also conduct a content analysis of YouTube videos and Internet forums that depict unorthodox e-cigarette use behaviors, such as mixing high-dose nicotine liquids and/or dripping liquid directly on the e-cigarette heater. This project will demonstrate how a mixed methods approach can be used to generate empirically-based, descriptive models of MRTP-related attitudes, beliefs, motivations and perceived effects that can be used to inform the development of comprehensive MRTP regulation.

VCU Center for the Study of Tobacco Products (TCORS) Related Resources