E-cigarette use and smoking cessation experiences among employees: A qualitative study

Objectives: This study explored motivations for e-cigarette use, usage patterns, experiences with smoking cessation, and perceptions of e-cigarettes among adult employees in an workplace setting. Methods: In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 adult smokers who participated in a workplace smoking cessation program. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Three major themes were identified. First, motivations for using e-cigarettes include odor avoidance, convenience, and the belief that they were less harmful than conventional cigarettes. Social and relational factors often influenced such decisions. Second, usage patterns revealed increased smoking frequency, dissatisfaction with e-cigarettes leading to a relapse involving the use of conventional cigarettes and dual use of e-cigarettes. These patterns indicate that e-cigarettes may reinforce rather than reduce smoking habits. Third, many participants reported that e-cigarettes weakened their motivation to quit smoking. While a few cited positive effects, such as reducing cigarette use or quitting after losing a device, most perceived e-cigarettes as delaying or undermining cessation owing to ease of use and reduced guilt. Conclusion: E-cigarette use may serve as a barrier to cessation and contribute to ongoing tobacco use. Public health efforts should address the misperceptions of reduced harm and provide cessation strategies tailored to e-cigarette users.