Gender-Specific Associations Between Tobacco and Tobacco-Free Nicotine Use and Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression in Swedish Adolescents

Background The use of non-combustible tobacco-free nicotine (TFN) products has increased markedly among adolescents. Although often perceived as less harmful than traditional tobacco products, nicotine use has been associated with psychological distress. Aim This study examined whether TFN use is associated with symptoms of anxiety and depression in adolescents, whether these associations differ from those of traditional tobacco products, and whether gender identity affects the outcome. Methods Adolescents aged 17 to 19 years were invited to complete an online questionnaire assessing nicotine use and psychological distress, measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Data were analyzed using chi-square tests and logistic regression models. Results A total of 3730 adolescents participated, of whom 30% reported nicotine use. TFN use was more common than tobacco use, while dual use was more prevalent among boys. Both TFN and tobacco use were associated with increased odds of anxiety or depression symptoms, with similar effect sizes across product types. However, association were partly gender-dependent. Among girls using nicotine, 80% reported anxiety symptoms, with higher frequency of use associated with greater risk. Among boys, nicotine use was associated with depressive symptoms, and dual product use was associated with an increased risk of psychological distress. Conclusion Nicotine use is associated with psychological distress regardless of product type. Girls may be particularly vulnerable to anxiety-related symptoms, while dual use appears especially risky among boys. These findings highlight the need for gender-sensitive prevention strategies targeting dual use and the progression to regular nicotine use.