Use of Electronic Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Among Active Component Services Members

Abstract

Introduction: e-cigarettes have been touted as a safer alternative to classic cigarettes and other combustible tobacco products. However, a growing body of evidence finds that any risk reduction associated with e-cigarette use is eliminated when individuals use "both" e-cigarettes and other tobacco products. Recent analyses from the Health Related Behaviors Survey suggest that rates of e-cigarette use are higher among active component service members than in the general population. However, little is known about the frequency and health behaviors associated with the dual use of e-cigarettes and other tobacco products among service members. Data and Method: Using data from the 2018 Health Related Behaviors Survey, this paper investigates whether active component service members who use both e-cigarettes and other tobacco products are more likely to engage in other types of substance use or negative health behaviors. Results: We find that the dual use of e-cigarettes and other tobacco products is associated with poorer physical and mental health, higher rates of alcohol misuse, and higher rates of insufficient sleep. Conclusion: The association between the dual use of e-cigarettes and tobacco products suggests that these individuals represent an important target group for health-related resources and attention in DoD.