Perceived Barriers to and Recommendations for Cessation among Poly-tobacco-using Young Adults

Objective: Young adult tobacco users are at an increased risk for using non-cigarette tobacco products and have high poly-use rates. We interviewed poly-tobacco-using young adults from an urban community to explore characteristics associated with their poly-tobacco use, perceived barriers to tobacco cessation, and recommendations for and interest in cessation programs. Methods: We conducted 17 focus group discussions with 97 poly-tobacco-using young adults. Interviews were analyzed using framework analysis and quantitative surveys were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: All participants reported a history of tobacco product poly-use, and 85% reported poly-use in the past 30 days. Study results indicate that this population faces multiple barriers to cessation (eg, influence of social network, easy access, anxiety management, belief in self-control, boredom), but that there is interest in utilizing mobile-based interventions and social media for cessation attempts, ultimately allowing them to manage cessation in their own time, and in a way that is more fitting with their lifestyle. Conclusions: To work toward eliminating tobacco-related cancer disparities, we must understand social and environmental factors that influence tobacco use among underserved populations so that primary prevention strategies to prevent smoking initiation may be implemented. Equally important are secondary prevention strategies that develop more targeted, effective smoking cessation interventions.