USU Researcher Studies Hidden Risks Behind Vaping Among College Students

SALT LAKE CITY — E-cigarettes are becoming more and more commonly used among college students. However, researchers are still trying to ascertain just how addictive these substances can be and what risks are associated with long-term use.

Two related new studies led by Utah State University researcher Tzung-Shiang Ou look at students’ reasons for vaping and how these behaviors can lead to nicotine dependence as well as alcohol-related problems.

“E-cigarette use among college students has surged in recent years, with over 12% reporting past 30-day use,” said Ou, an assistant professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Science. “This trend is coupled with high rates of alcohol use, raising concerns about co-use and long-term dependence. These findings offer timely insights into the growing public health challenges of vaping on college campuses.”

The data for the study was collected over four years (2019-2023) from students at three major U.S. universities. The study used ecological momentary assessment, where data was collected in real-time using mobile devices. In the study, Ou examined why students vape and how these motivations contribute to future dependence.

The study found that students who vaped to relax or because they liked the taste were more likely to become addicted to nicotine.

“This highlights that even seemingly harmless reasons like stress relief or flavor can quietly increase risk of addiction,” Ou said.

Additionally, the data showed that more than one-third of college e-cigarette users also were using alcohol. The research showed that students who vaped in social settings — like parties or while hanging out with friends — were more likely to drink alcohol and experience problems related to drinking. This is especially concerning because nicotine and alcohol have been shown to have reinforcing effects on each other, leading users to want to consume even more.

“Many students reported vaping to have a good time with friends,” Ou said. “While it may seem like a casual social behavior, this reason was also tied to higher alcohol misuse, showing how peer settings can amplify harmful alcohol misuse behavior.”

Ou says the study highlights the need for college campuses to reexamine and reshape their existing substance use policies. The findings support integrating substance use screenings with mental health services on college campuses, as well as the need for more educational campaigns to promote healthier alternatives for stress relief and social bonding. Ultimately, the goal would be to target not only behavior, but also the motivations behind these behaviors.

Ou was joined by researchers from San Diego State University, National Taiwan University, and University of Texas Health Science Center. The research was funded by the National Institutes of Health.

Ou is a health behavior researcher with a background in clinical nursing. He is trained in both nursing and public health with a focus on behavioral science. He holds a doctorate in Health Behavior from Indiana University Bloomington. His research centers on substance use and associated risk factors across the lifespan.

With locations in Salt Lake City, Orem, Park City and Heber, Utah State University’s Wasatch Region offers students the personalized attention and small class sizes of a small-town college with the resources of a large university. With degree options ranging from associate to doctorate degrees, plus technical education offerings, USU offers programs that help fuel local economies and empower individuals and their communities. Learn more at statewide.usu.edu.