Reaching Youth Virtually During a Pandemic: Development and Process Evaluation of #iCANendthetrend, A Peer-Led E-cigarette Prevention and Empowerment Program

ABSTRACT

Youth e-cigarette use has reached epidemic levels, highlighting a critical need for prevention programming. The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the need to support students virtually. In late 2020, #iCANendthetrend, a near-peer school-based intervention, was virtually delivered to 4th-12th graders by trained college facilitators. Data sample includes 383 participants. Outcomes across presentation type and grade levels were compared using Chi-square/Fisher's exact test. Most students found the program beneficial for their age, liked having a near-peer facilitator, and enjoyed the virtual format. Middle schoolers enjoyed the program more than high schoolers (p<.05). Elementary and middle schoolers were more likely to agree that presenters were engaging (p<.05). Our findings suggest 4th-12th grade students are highly receptive to a near-peer approach, even when virtual.