# Lifestyle Habits and Alternative Tobacco and Nicotine Products: Results from the MINERVA Project

## TL;DR

This study explores how lifestyle and diet habits in Italy are linked to the use and intention to use alternative tobacco and nicotine products among young people.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific lifestyle and dietary predictors of alternative tobacco and nicotine product use among adolescents and young adults.

## Key findings

- 48% of participants reported ever using ATNP, with 14% of non-users intending to try them.
- Frequent fast food and alcohol consumption were linked to higher ATNP use and intention.
- Daily fruit and vegetable consumption was associated with lower ATNP use and intention.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Alternative Tobacco and Nicotine Products (ATNPs) have gained widespread popularity. Although they are often promoted as lower-risk alternatives to traditional tobacco products, concerns remain regarding their association with risky behaviors among adolescents and young adults. This study examines the relationship between dietary and lifestyle habits and both ATNP use and intention to use ATNP among Italian participants in the MINERVA (My changINg lifEstyles our Research and eVeryone heAlth) international project. Methods: MINERVA is an observational, international, prospective cohort study. A study-specific questionnaire was administered to participants, who were recruited through informal snowball sampling. The questionnaire collected information on sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, dietary habits, and the use of both traditional tobacco products and ATNPs. Predictors of ATNP use and intention to use were assessed using logistic regression models. Results: Data from 7535 Italian participants were analyzed. Overall, 48% reported having ever used ATNP, and 14% of non-smokers and non-users expressed an intention to try these products. Significant predictors of ATNP use and intention to use included prior smoking, lower age, and having family members who smoke. Lifestyle factors such as frequent consumption of fast food, junk food, and alcoholic beverages were positively associated with both ATNP use and intention to use. Conversely, daily fruit and vegetable consumption was inversely associated with these outcomes. Conclusions: ATNP use and intention to use were associated with unhealthy dietary and lifestyle patterns. These findings highlight the importance of integrated public health strategies addressing substance use alongside broader lifestyle behaviors among adolescents and young adults.