Risk Perceptions of Smokeless XXXX Among Adolescent and Adult Users and Nonusers.

@entity1 @entity286 @entity5 @entity2520
UNASSIGNED: The recent growth in smokeless @entity286 (ST) consumption has raised questions about consumer risk perceptions of ST products, especially in high-risk vulnerable populations. This qualitative study examined risk perceptions of ST among adolescent and adult users and nonusers in Ohio Appalachia. Focus groups and interviews were held with adolescents (n  =  53; M age  =  17 years) and adults (n  =  63; M age  =  34 years) from four Ohio Appalachian counties. @entity1 were asked about their perceptions of ST-related health risks, ST safety, and the relative safety of ST compared with cigarettes. Transcriptions were coded independently by two individuals. Overall, @entity1 were knowledgeable about health problems from ST use (e.g., @entity5 , @entity2520 ). Nearly all @entity1 stated that ST use is not safe; however, there was disagreement about its relative safety. Some perceived all @entity286 products as equally harmful; others believed that ST is safer than cigarettes for either the user or those around the user. Disagreements about ST relative safety may reflect mixed public health messages concerning the safety of ST. Comprehensive consumer messages about the relative safety of ST compared with cigarettes are needed. Messages should address the effect of ST on the health of the user as well as those exposed to the user.
