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    SRNT2024 Abstract

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    Salem

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    © All Rights Reserved
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    SRNT2024 Abstract

    Uploaded by

    Salem
    7 views1 page

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    Download as docx, pdf, or txt
    7 views1 page

    SRNT2024 Abstract

    Uploaded by

    Salem

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd
    Download as docx, pdf, or txt
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    SRNT 2024 ABSTRACT

    EXPLORING VAPING PRACTICES IN EASTERN LIBYA: A QUALITATIVE PILOT STUDY OF VAPE SHOP
    RETAILERS' PERSPECTIVES

    Significance:

    Libya represents lower- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where tobacco/nicotine research is
    significantly underrepresented, tobacco products are virtually unregulated, and usage is rampant (Allen,
    2022; WHO). This study aims to investigate the uncharted vaping landscape in Libya by surveying local
    vape product vendors. It is the first report on patterns of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) use
    in the country.

    Methods:

    In-person, semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted between September and October
    2023. Participants (n=10) were owners/managers of vape shops that sell vape products exclusively in the
    cities of Benghazi (urban) and Al-Marej (rural). Participants were asked about perceptions of current
    vaping trends, consumer demographics and beliefs, and challenges faced by Libyan vape product
    vendors. Content and thematic analyses were performed on interview transcripts.

    Results:

    Participants reported their consumers are mostly >18, male, and traditional cigarette smokers, who
    favored rechargeable and refillable products. Customers generally exhibited mid to high socioeconomic
    status and education levels. Tobacco, menthol, and fruity flavors were the most popular. Consumer
    motivations for purchasing vapes were dichotomized into (1) intentions to quit smoking (in older vapers)
    and (2) curiosity about vaping (among youth).

    Concern over product safety and quality control emerged as a theme. Imported products from the UK
    and Turkey dominated the Libyan market, bearing safety warnings and barcode verification; however,
    participants expressed concerns about circulating sub-par products, illegal trade, anti-vaping campaigns
    (largely from local tobacco companies), and misuse of their products. Social media and the internet were
    predominant information sources about vaping for vendors and drove their marketing strategies.

    A major theme was the lack of awareness, as perceived by vape shop retailers, among customers and
    physicians regarding vaping's health impacts and potential utility as a smoking cessation device.

    Conclusion:

    This pilot study sheds light on previously unreported ENDS use in Libya and lays the groundwork for
    future epidemiological research. Vape shop owners highlighted the lack of awareness regarding ENDS
    among Libyan consumers and healthcare professionals as well as concerns over product quality/safety,
    which may require targeted and culture-specific public health interventions. Drawing on global
    experiences, Libya is well-positioned to proactively tackle the vaping epidemic and promote evidence-
    based smoking cessation.

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