April 7-9, 2022 • Hyatt Regency • Lexington, KY
Communication Strategies to Promote Comprehensive Well-being
Communication Strategies to Promote Comprehensive Well-being
Abstract: Communicating Science Through Comics: A Novel Approach to Understanding E-cigarette Use Among Young People
Background: Although e-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco product among young adults on college campuses, innovative communication strategies to convey this public health issue are lacking. Comics provide an opportunity to present a narrative that resonates with young adults while allowing them to connect with current research data. Objectives: The objectives of this presentation are to: 1) describe the process of translating a published research study to an original comic book designed to bring attention to e-cigarette use among young adults; and 2) summarize formative feedback received during a pilot of the comic to support future interventions. Methods: University faculty and staff developed the ‘Villainous Vape’ by translating research on e-cigarette use among college students to a comic book. The 6-month process included translating interpretation of the study findings into a narrative that resonates with young adults. Formative feedback was collected through discussion with an advisory panel and used to support the development of the final comic script. A pilot of the comic will be conducted January 2022 to determine general perceptions of the comic, visual appeal, overall research themes identified after reading through it, and suggestions to integrate into prevention curriculum. Results: Feedback from the college student advisory group helped frame appropriate language used throughout the comic and to ensure the scenes and storyline depicted typical college interactions. The young adults stated that they liked the comic and gained knowledge of the harmful effects of e-cigarette use and identified risk factors relevant to youth and young adults. Additional pilot findings forthcoming. Conclusion: This comic shows promise in communicating a public health issue such as e-cigarette use on college campuses.