How are nicotine vapourisers (e-cigarettes) represented to pharmacists? A content analysis of Australian pharmacy newspapers
Background
Electronic nicotine delivery systems, also known as e-cigarettes or personal nicotine vapourisers, are battery powered devices with an integrated atomizer (chamber for vaporisation) that heat a liquid solution, usually containing nicotine, solvents and flavourings, into an aerosol mist (also known as vapour) that is inhaled. E-cigarettes are the most popular products smokers are using to get off of smoking combustible cigarettes and/or reduce the number of cigarettes smoked. The current evidence regarding their role in smoking cessation, however, is mixed and inconsistent. Due to the lack of evidence and the potential short and long term health effect, the majority of health organisations and peak health bodies in Australia urge caution regarding the use and endorsement of e-cigarettes for smoking cessation. This precautionary approach being followed by the government and leading health organisations could have a potential influence on how Australian medical and pharmacy newspapers present e-cigarettes in their news coverage. This may influence and shape healthcare practitioner views regarding e-cigarette and their practices when it comes to patient-provider discussion and recommendation.
Aim
The aim of this project is: (1) to examine how the medical and pharmacy newspapers present/portray e-cigarettes in their news coverage, (2) to examine why the media framed them in certain ways, and (3) evaluate the extent and factors influencing selective citation (uses) of evidence, news sources and issues/topic attributes.
Approach
A content analysis of leading online pharmacy news sources in Australia will be conducted. News and Op-eds such as editorials, columns, and letters to the editor that have e-cigarettes as the primary or secondary focus will be reviewed. Data regarding News sources (government officials/document, healthcare professionals, research articles and researchers, e-cigarette company, health/medical and advocacy organisations, law enforcement officials…), and topics covered including regulation, safety and health effects, practice recommendations will be extracted and qualitatively analysed. The student will be trained by and work with a PhD student throughout the project.
Expected outcomes and deliverables:
This research project gives scholars an opportunity to gain skills and experience in data collection and content analysis of an online-based health information. There is an opportunity to publish the finding in peer reviewed, referred journal. Students may also be asked to produce a report or oral presentation at the end of their project.
Suitable for:
This research project gives scholars an opportunity to gain skills and experience in data collection and content analysis of an online-based health information. There is an opportunity to publish the finding in peer reviewed, referred journal. Students may also be asked to produce a report or oral presentation at the end of their project.
Primary Supervisor:
Associate Professor Kathryn Steadman
Further information:
For further information, contact us: k.steadman@uq.edu.au or d.erku@uq.edu.au. You are welcome to write us before submitting an application, if you have any questions regarding the project.