An adaptation and exploratory factor analysis of the smoking-related weight and eating episodes test (SWEET) for electronic cigarette users

Introduction

Smoking for weight control is a well-documented behavior. There is emerging evidence to suggest electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) may be used for similar motivations yet measure development for the use of e-cigarettes for weight control has received less attention. The objective of the current study was to adapt and explore the psychometric properties of The Smoking-Related Weight and Eating Episodes Test (SWEET) for e-cigarette users.

Methods

Young adult (N=1875) current cigarette, e-cigarette, and dual users completed the original SWEET (SWEET-C) and/or adapted SWEET for e-cigarette use (SWEET-EC) based on current tobacco product use. Demographics, associated e-cigarette characteristics, nicotine dependence, outcome expectancies, and eating disorder behaviors were also assessed. Participants were recruited online and measures were completed via self-report.

Results

Four exploratory factor analyses using principal components extraction and direct oblimin rotation methods were run to explore the SWEET-C and SWEET-EC. A one-factor solution explaining 66 % of the variance was retained for the SWEET-C, and a one-factor solution explaining 73 % of the variance was retained for the SWEET-EC. Both measures exhibited excellent internal consistency. Higher SWEET-EC scores were observed among dual users, and were associated with daily e-cigarette use, JUUL use, self-reported vaping for weight control, older age, higher body mass index, and problematic eating behaviors.

Conclusion

Our findings support the adaptation of the SWEET-EC to measure e-cigarette use for weight control. The SWEET-EC will help to better understand how individuals use e-cigarettes to curb eating behavior and for weight control.