The use of nicotine pouches among American soldiers is significantly higher than among the general population, according to a recent study conducted at Fort Liberty, the largest American military base. Researchers from UVA Cancer Center, the Fort Liberty Department of Public Health, and the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center analyzed responses from 1,957 soldiers surveyed in 2022 and 2023. The results revealed that 23.8% of soldiers reported using nicotine pouches in the previous 30 days, compared to just 2.9% of all American adults who reported ever using nicotine pouches.
Dr. Melissa Little, the director of the Center for Nicotine and Tobacco Research at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, noted that military personnel have historically used tobacco and nicotine products at higher rates than civilians. The study’s findings highlight the continued disparities in nicotine pouch use among soldiers, indicating a concerning trend with new and emerging products.
The research, published in the journal JAMA Network Open, found that nicotine pouch use among soldiers increased over the survey period, with 24.7% of participants in 2023 reporting use compared to 20.2% in 2022. Nicotine pouches are highly addictive and have been associated with various health risks, including cardiovascular issues, oral health problems, and the promotion of cancer growth.
The study also identified demographic factors associated with nicotine pouch use, such as age, gender, race, marital status, and education level. Younger, male, White soldiers who used other tobacco or nicotine products were more likely to use nicotine pouches. Soldiers over 30 and those with higher education levels were less likely to use nicotine pouches.
As approximately 200,000 soldiers transition to civilian life each year, the researchers emphasized the importance of developing interventions to reduce nicotine and tobacco consumption among military personnel. Dr. Little highlighted the need for tailored approaches to address the high rates of nicotine pouch use and support soldiers in leading healthier lives post-military service.
The research team is working on interventions to help military personnel reduce nicotine pouch use. Dr. Little and her colleagues are dedicated to providing soldiers with the tools and support they need to prioritize their health and well-being. The study’s authors include Dr. Kathryn M. Polaskey, Dr. Asal Pilehvari, Dr. Rebecca A. Krukowski, Dr. Kurt M. Ribisl, and Dr. Teresa D. Pearce, with Dr. Ribisl disclosing his involvement as a consultant in litigation against e-cigarette and tobacco companies.
For more information on the study, titled “Nicotine Pouch Use Among US Military Personnel,” published in JAMA Network Open, visit the University of Virginia’s website. The study’s DOI is 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.51517.
In conclusion, the research highlights the concerning prevalence of nicotine pouch use among American soldiers and underscores the importance of addressing this issue to support the health and well-being of military personnel. Continuing efforts to reduce nicotine and tobacco consumption among soldiers are vital as they transition back to civilian life.
