Loneliness was significantly positively correlated with nicotine dependence among adult smokers (r = 0.12, p = 0.002), particularly among e-cigarette users (r = 0.16, p = 0.007).
Cross-Sectional (n=653)
Loneliness is positively correlated with nicotine dependence among e-cigarette users, suggesting that addressing psychosocial factors may enhance smoking cessation strategies.
Effect estimate: r = 0.12
p-value: p=0.002
Abstract Rationale Loneliness has been associated with smoking behavior; however, its specific link to nicotine dependence, particularly across different forms of smoking such as e-cigarette use, remains insufficiently understood. Gaining insight into this relationship may enhance the effectiveness of smoking cessation strategies by addressing underlying psychosocial factors. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 653 adult smokers in Saudi Arabia, recruited through convenience sampling via social media and public outreach. Data were collected using a self-administered online survey, which included the three-item UCLA Loneliness Scale, the Penn State Nicotine Dependence Index (PSNDI), and demographic questions. Results A total of 653 smokers participated in the study, with the majority being cigarette users (380, 58.2%), males (597, 91.4%), and aged 18-30 years (423, 64.8%). Most participants were single 461 (70.6%) and resided in the Eastern region 339 (51.9%), while 138 (21.1%) reported having comorbidities. Among the participants, 240 (36.8%) were classified as experiencing loneliness, including 129 (33.9%) of cigarette users and 111 (40.7%) of e-cigarette users. Moderate to high nicotine dependence was reported in 65.8% of cigarette users (36% were lonely) and 74.8% of e-cigarette users (42% were lonely). A statistically significant positive correlation was observed between loneliness and nicotine dependence among e-cigarette users (r = 0.16, p = 0.007) and in the overall sample (r = 0.12, p = 0.002), but not among cigarette smokers (r = 0.09, p = 0.09). Logistic regression analysis identified the central region (p = 0.002) and presence of comorbidities (p = 0.004) as significant predictors of loneliness among e-cigarette users. In contrast, no significant predictors were found among cigarette users. Conclusion The prevalence of loneliness among smokers was notably high, reaching 37%. There was a positive correlation between loneliness and nicotine dependence, particularly among e-cigarette users. Although the association was not statistically significant among cigarette smokers, a clear pattern was observed. Addressing loneliness in cessation programs may reduce nicotine dependence and improve psychosocial well-being among smokers in Saudi Arabia. This abstract is funded by: None
Alqahtani et al. (Fri,) conducted a cross-sectional in Nicotine dependence among smokers (n=653). Loneliness was evaluated on Correlation between loneliness and nicotine dependence (r = 0.12, p=0.002). Loneliness was significantly positively correlated with nicotine dependence among adult smokers (r = 0.12, p = 0.002), particularly among e-cigarette users (r = 0.16, p = 0.007).