Nicotine Dependence and Stress Susceptibility in E-Cigarette Smokers: The Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2013–2017

Background: E-cigarettes are steadily gaining popularity in Korea. However, the characteristics of e-cigarette smokers, especially nicotine dependence and stress susceptibility, have not been evaluated comparison to those nonsmokers or combustible cigarette smokers Korea. Methods: In this study, 28,059 participants from Korea National Health Nutrition Examination Survey (2013-2017) were classified into following three groups: non-smokers, (current ex-smokers cigarettes only), e-smokers e-cigarettes regardless use). Results: Among participants, 16,980 (60.5%), 9,247 (33.0%), 1,832 (6.4%) subjects e-smokers, respectively. E-smokers younger, more educated, had a higher household income than smokers. The number who smoked within 5 minutes waking up (31.5% vs. 19.8%, p<0.001) planned quit smoking 6 months (39.1% 35.7%, p<0.05) was greater that perceived as “very much” (7.0% 4.4%, “a lot” (29.1% 20.5%, compared non-smokers. Suicidal ideation (6.5% 4.7%, p<0.001), plans (2.4% 1.3%, attempts (1.1% 0.5%, Depressive episodes 1 year (14.2% 11.4%, suicidal 1.8%, frequent among smokers. Conclusion: income, but they dependent on susceptible non-smokers Smoking cessation counseling should be tailored according e-smokers.