Co-designing a Vaping Cessation Program for Australian Young Adults: A Conceptual Model

Abstract Introduction Australian young adults (YA) report difficulties in quitting vaping. This study sought to understand what a vaping cessation program should look like from the perspective of current and former vapers, and professionals/experts involved in this health space, to inform the development of a conceptual model. Aims and Methods Data collection was informed by Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) using co-design methodology to explore vaping cessation. Interactive workshops and semi-structured interviews were held online between March 2023 and January 2024, with data from participants’ narratives and written materials thematically analyzed. Results YAs (18–24 years) identifying as current or former vapers (n = 15) and health professionals/experts’(n = 13) insights informed the model framework, incorporating three main elements based on environmental, personal, and behavioral factors shaping vaping cessation. Four design considerations were identified; the program needs to be affordable, accessible, appropriate, and adaptable. YAs expressed a strong preference to share their quitting journey with peers, endorsing a digital forum providing a hybrid framework of support. Conclusions Vaping cessation is nuanced and complex requiring a multi-faceted approach targeted to the specific needs of the young adult population. Implications The findings can be used to inform the development of a vaping cessation program tailored to YA in Australia and other similar contexts. YA perceived sharing the quitting journey and being inspired by the lived experience of others as critical components for successful vaping cessation. SCT is demonstrated to be a valuable behavior change framework for understanding vaping cessation and should be considered in future research on intervention development.