Study Reveals E-Cigarettes and Traditional Smoking Ineffective for Quitting
A recent study published in the journal IRJ Open Research has found that individuals who use both e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes, referred to as "dual cigarette smokers," are significantly less likely to quit smoking compared to those who use only one type. The research indicates that after 4 to 8 months, only 3% of dual users managed to quit, compared to 8% of e-cigarette only users and 6% of traditional cigarette smokers. This trend continues over time, with cessation rates showing minimal improvement for dual users.
The study highlights that after 16 to 24 months, the quit rate for dual users was 13%, while it was 17% for traditional smokers and 26% for e-cigarette users. The findings suggest that most dual users tend to revert back to traditional smoking, with a notable increase in reversion rates observed over time. Joseph Hammoud, a research assistant at the University of Göttingen Medical Center and author of the study, emphasized the concerning trend of dual usage and its implications for smoking cessation efforts.
E-Cigarettes: A Controversial Alternative
E-cigarettes have been marketed as a healthier alternative to traditional smoking, gaining popularity among those attempting to quit. However, the study raises questions about their effectiveness when used alongside traditional cigarettes. Hammoud pointed out that while e-cigarettes do not contain tobacco and are perceived to have lower risks due to the absence of tar and carbon monoxide, the long-term health effects remain largely unknown. The World Health Organization and various anti-smoking organizations have yet to confirm the relative safety of e-cigarettes compared to traditional smoking, pending further research. As the debate continues, the study serves as a critical reminder of the complexities surrounding smoking cessation and the potential pitfalls of combining smoking methods.
