Prevalence of smokeless tobacco use among Canadian youth between 2004 and 2008: Findings from the youth smoking survey

Objectives: The current study team sought to understand smokeless tobacco (SLT) usage trends among youth, using nationally representative data collected as part of the Canadian Youth Smoking Survey (YSS) between 2004 and 2008. Methods: Descriptive analyses of SLT ever use among respondents in grades 6 to 9 were examined according to year of data collection (2008, n=31,249; 2006, n=34,050; and 2004, n=23,362). Using the 2008 data from respondents in grades 6 to 12 (n=51,922), logistic regression models were used to examine characteristics associated with SLT ever use and current use. Results: Between 2004 and 2008, the prevalence of youth in grades 6 to 9 reporting they have ever tried SLT significantly decreased by 30.8%. In 2008, male students were more likely than females to have tried SLT (OR 4.87, 95% CI 4.34-5.45) or to currently use SLT (OR 4.96, 95% CI 4.12-5.96). There are regional differences in prevalence of SLT use across Canada, with the highest rates in western provinces and the lowest in Quebec. Current smokers were also more likely to use SLT (OR 11.86, 95% CI 10.22-13.76) compared to non-smokers. Older students are more likely to report ever use or current use of SLT. Conclusion: The findings from this study demonstrate that in Canada, adolescent SLT use is primarily an issue with males and there are significant regional differences. Ongoing monitoring of SLT is encouraged considering the tobacco industry's recent investments and product development and increased use in countries like the United States.