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Aqeeli A, Alsabaani AA, Alshaiban H, Alqassim AY, Alahmar AS, Sabai A, Alwadani S. Assessing the Dependence and Perceptions of the Harm and Addictiveness of Electronic Cigarettes among Saudi University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1289. [PMID: 38998824 PMCID: PMC11241595 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12131289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The rising prevalence of e-cigarette use among university students necessitates a comprehensive understanding of dependence levels and associated factors. This study investigates e-cigarette dependence among Jazan University students in Saudi Arabia. (2) Methods: With the use of a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 1187 students through an online survey from January to April 2024. Dependence levels were assessed using the Penn State Electronic Cigarette Dependence Index (PS-ECDI), and the Arabic version of the questionnaire was validated through pilot testing. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated with e-cigarette dependence. (3) Results: The results indicated that among current e-cigarette users, 37.4% had low dependence, 34.4% had medium dependence, and 13.8% had high dependence. A significant proportion of current and ever users regarded e-cigarettes to be less harmful (50.6% and 44.4%, respectively) and less addictive (37.9% and 32.3%, respectively) than cigarettes. Significant factors influencing dependence included gender, with males showing higher odds of medium (AOR = 12.8, 95% CI: 3.4-47.6) and low dependence (AOR = 9.7, 95% CI: 2.5-37.3) compared to females. Longer duration of e-cigarette use (>2 years) was strongly associated with high dependence (AOR = 50, 95% CI: 7.7-324). Daily use and multiple quit attempts were also significant predictors of higher dependence levels. (4) Conclusions: These findings highlight the substantial e-cigarette dependence among university students and underscore the need for targeted interventions to address this growing public health concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulwahab Aqeeli
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
- Saudi Board for Preventive Medicine Residency Program, King Khalid University, Abha 61913, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah A Alsabaani
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan Alshaiban
- Preventive Medicine Program, Aseer Health Cluster, Abha 62523, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad Y Alqassim
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anwar S Alahmar
- ERADH and Mental Health Hospital, Jazan Health Cluster, Jazan 82943, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Sabai
- Population Health Unit, Jazan Health Affairs, Jazan 82611, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saud Alwadani
- Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
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Vichayanrat T, Chidchuangchai W, Karawekpanyawong R, Phienudomkitlert K, Chongcharoenjai N, Fungkiat N. E-cigarette use, perceived risks, attitudes, opinions of e-cigarette policies, and associated factors among Thai university students. Tob Induc Dis 2024; 22:TID-22-74. [PMID: 38737769 PMCID: PMC11087886 DOI: 10.18332/tid/186536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although many countries, including Thailand, currently ban the sale of e-cigarettes, their use continues to rise, especially among young adults. Since the study of e-cigarette use among university students is limited, this study aimed to determine factors associated with e-cigarette use and explore university students' attitudes toward e-cigarettes, perceived risk, and opinion of e-cigarette policies. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate students using convenience sampling in a university, in central Thailand from November 2022 to February 2023. A self-administered online questionnaire was distributed to 19 faculties representing health sciences, science and technology, social and arts faculties, and the International College. RESULTS A total of 548 students completed the online questionnaire, and 20.4% reported ever using e-cigarettes, while 40% of e-cigarette users were unsure about the nicotine content. About 28% agreed, and 22% were unsure whether e-cigarettes could help quit smoking. Most students perceived that e-cigarettes are addictive and harmful, while about half of the participants agreed with the policy related to e-cigarettes in Thailand. Students with positive attitudes towards e-cigarettes were more likely to use e-cigarettes (AOR=1.15; 95% CI: 1.08-1.22), and those with lower perceived risk (AOR=0.89; 95% CI: 0.82-0.96) and who disagreed with e-cigarettes policy (AOR=0.93; 95% CI: 0.89-0.97) were more likely to use e-cigarettes. Personal income and having friends who use e-cigarettes were the significant predictors for e-cigarette use, while studying in the faculty of science and technology was a predictor of using e-cigarettes last month. CONCLUSIONS Although the perceived risk was high, about half of the students thought that e-cigarettes could help them quit smoking and were unsure or disagreed with e-cigarette banning policies. Attitude, perceived risk, policy opinions, personal income, and having friends who used e-cigarettes, were associated with e-cigarette use. Thus, correcting misunderstandings and increasing risk perceptions about e-cigarettes must be advocated among university students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tippanart Vichayanrat
- Department of Community Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Warungkana Chidchuangchai
- Department of Oral Medicine and Periodontology, Faculty of Dentistry, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Ghanim M, Rabayaa M, Abuawad M, Saeedi M, Amer J. E-cigarette use among university students in Palestine: Prevalence, knowledge, and determinant factors. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302946. [PMID: 38718008 PMCID: PMC11078419 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent reports indicated accelerated rates of e-cigarette use, especially among youth in various Middle Eastern countries, including Palestine. Nevertheless, little is known about knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions regarding this topic in Palestine. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of e-cigarette use among Palestinian university students, along with their knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions about e-cigarette use. METHODS An observational cross-sectional study, utilizing an online self-administered questionnaire, was conducted on Palestinian students from five universities between 17/04/2023 and 04/11/2023. RESULTS A total of 1002 Palestinian university students completed the questionnaire. The prevalence of e-cigarette use among students was 18.1%. The mean knowledge score about e-cigarettes was significantly lower among the users of e-cigarettes compared to non-users. E-cigarette use was significantly associated with the participants' smoking status. Among e-cigarette users, 43.6% were also current traditional cigarette users, and 66.9% were current waterpipe users. E-cigarette use was significantly associated with having a friend who is a smoker and/ or a smoking mother. Binary logistic regression revealed a significant positive effect between the participant's smoking status, the mother's smoking status, knowledge about e-cigarettes, and the use of e-cigarettes (p-value < 0.05). Among e-cigarette users, 18.8% used them in indoor places at the university, and 25% reported using them daily in the past month. Affordability of e-cigarettes was the most reported reason for their use (47.5%). CONCLUSION This study concluded that e-cigarette use is prevalent and rapidly rising among university students in Palestine. This is worrisome as it is significantly associated with insufficient knowledge about the adverse health effects of E-cigarette use, and its addictive nature. These findings focus on the importance of improving the students' knowledge about e-cigarette use by implementing educational campaigns and considering age regulations on e-cigarette availability and use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Ghanim
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Maha Rabayaa
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Mohammad Abuawad
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Munther Saeedi
- Language Centre, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Johnny Amer
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Allied and Applied Medical Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
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Nazzal Z, Maraqa B, Azizeh R, Darawsha B, AbuAlrub I, Hmeidat M, Al-Jabari F. Exploring the prevalence, knowledge, attitudes and influencing factors of e-cigarette use among university students in Palestine: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e080881. [PMID: 38367977 PMCID: PMC10875484 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-080881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES E-cigarettes have gained popularity, especially among young adults. This study aims to determine the prevalence of e-cigarette smoking, assess knowledge and attitudes and identify associated factors among Palestinian university students. DESIGN A cross-sectional study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS The study was conducted among Palestinian university students in early 2023.A self-administered questionnaire was used to survey 1792 students from six Palestine universities in the West Bank. The questionnaire covered various aspects, including sociodemographic information, daily habits, exposure to smoking, attitudes and knowledge about e-cigarettes. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, χ2 tests and multivariate regression analysis. RESULTS The study revealed a high prevalence of tobacco use (41.2%), with e-cigarette use prevalent among 19.7% of participants. Knowledge about e-cigarettes was suboptimal, with misconceptions regarding their safety and health effects. Negative attitudes towards e-cigarettes were common, and students with negative attitudes were more likely to use e-cigarettes (aOR=2.6, 95% CI: 1.9 to 3.6). Gender (aOR=2.1, 95% CI: 1.4 to 3.0), waterpipe smoking (aOR=4.5, 95% CI: 3.2 to 6.3), physical inactivity (aOR=1.4, 95% CI: 1.1 to 1.9), high coffee consumption (aOR=1.6, 95% CI: 1.1 to 2.3), spending time with friends (aOR=2.4, 95% CI: 1.5 to 3.7), having a mother who is a smoker (aOR=1.5, 95% CI: 1.1 to 2.2) and having a friend who uses e-cigarettes (aOR=1.5, 95% CI: 1.1 to 2.1) were significantly associated with e-cigarettes use. CONCLUSIONS E-cigarette use is a growing concern among Palestinian university students. Combating this trend should include educational initiatives, social interventions and policy measures to promote informed decision-making and discourage e-cigarette use. Comprehensive tobacco control programs considering various tobacco and nicotine products and involving multiple stakeholders are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaher Nazzal
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Beesan Maraqa
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Hebron University, Hebron, Palestine
- Primary Health Care, Ministry of Health, Hebron, Palestine
| | - Razan Azizeh
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Bara' Darawsha
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Ibraheem AbuAlrub
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
| | - Mousa Hmeidat
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Hebron University, Hebron, Palestine
| | - Fadel Al-Jabari
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Hebron University, Hebron, Palestine
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Alhalafi A. The Use of Electronic Cigarettes in Saudi Arabia: A Narrative Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e54167. [PMID: 38496178 PMCID: PMC10941232 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.54167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The use of electronic cigarettes (or "e-cigarettes") is spreading throughout the world. Population-level data from a number of countries indicate that e-cigarettes are used more by children and young adults than by the overall population. Although extensive research has been conducted in Western nations to better understand many aspects of e-cigarette usage among children and young adults, Middle Eastern nations have little data on this topic. The use of tobacco is detrimental to the health, finances, and national spirit of Saudi Arabia. More than 7,000 of its citizens die each year from diseases caused by tobacco use. Nevertheless, more than 20,000 youngsters and 3,352,000 adults smoke cigarettes each day. Similarly, the use of electronic cigarettes is on the rise, possibly as a result of aggressive publicity and marketing campaigns by manufacturers that appeal to the younger demographic. This review was undertaken through literature research to ascertain the usage and attitudes toward e-cigarette use among the Saudi population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Alhalafi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha, SAU
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Deng R, Yang C, Yuan Y, Liang L, Yang X, Wang X, Tian J, Zhang Y, Wu X, Dai H. A cross-sectional survey of medical and other groups' awareness, perceptions, and willingness to use e-cigarettes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1323804. [PMID: 38259797 PMCID: PMC10800479 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1323804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In China, people's perceptions towards electronic cigarettes during Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic compared with pre-pandemic conditions have not been explored. Exploring the perceptions of medical workers regarding e-cigarettes is crucial, as they serve as a trusted source of information and providers of smoking cessation counselling for smokers. This cross-sectional study was designed to explore the awareness and perceptions of e-cigarettes among Chinese medical and other groups in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A cross-sectional survey was performed using an online, anonymous, and self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire contained sections for collecting participants' general information and Likert scale questions regarding smoking status, perceptions of e-smoking, attitude, and willingness to use e-cigarettes. The respondents included medical students, clinical doctors, and other occupations. Data analysis was performed using tools such as descriptive analysis, binary logistic regression, and multivariate regression. Results A total of 952 people completed the questionnaire, and 96.54% of them reported to have heard about e-cigarettes. The most common source of information about e-cigarettes was advertising. Notably, 28 of the 116 smokers reported that they had used e-cigarettes. Independent-samples T-tests results showed that medical groups believed e-cigarettes contained tar (p = 0.03). Most of the medical and non-medical participants maintained neutral attitudes towards e-cigarette policies (38.3%) and prices (49.2%) but their views were significantly different (p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression indicated that highly educated people had higher knowledge about e-cigarettes relative to those with lower education (undergraduate, OR = 1.848, 95CI% = 1.305-2.616, p = 0.001; master's degree or doctoral degree, OR = 1.920, 95CI% = 1.230-2.997, p = 0.004). The medical group used fewer e-cigarettes compared to non-medical group (OR = 1.866, 95CI% = 1.185-2.938, p = 0.007), the non-traditional cigarette users showed lower utilization compared to traditional cigarette users (18-40, OR = 4.797, 95CI% = 0.930-24.744, p = 0.061; > 40, OR = 9.794, 95CI% = 1.683-56.989, p = 0.011) and the older adult used fewer than the young (18-40, OR = 4.797, 95CI% = 0.930-24.744, p = 0.061; > 40, OR = 9.794, 95CI% = 1.683-56.989, p = 0.011). Conclusion This study found that individuals tend to hold negative attitudes towards the awareness, perceptions, and willingness to use e-cigarettes. Medical groups are less likely to use e-cigarettes, but misperceptions are still prevalent among them. This calls for additional training for such medical personnel to improve their capacity to provide necessary counselling to smokers. E-cigarettes advertisements were the main source of information for young individuals to learn about e-cigarettes, and hence measures should be taken to restrict exposure of young individuals to e-cigarettes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruihang Deng
- First Clinical Medical College, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chuang Yang
- First Clinical Medical College, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yifang Yuan
- First Clinical Medical College, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lifang Liang
- First Clinical Medical College, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin Yang
- First Clinical Medical College, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xinyu Wang
- First Clinical Medical College, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiao Tian
- First Clinical Medical College, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuxin Zhang
- First Clinical Medical College, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuekai Wu
- First Clinical Medical College, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Haiyun Dai
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Alhaqbani A, Alismail M, Alotaibi A, Alibrahim Z, Alqahtani A, Omair A, Al-Nasser S. The Use of Vaping Among Male Health Sciences Students Compared to Other Male Students in Riyadh. Cureus 2023; 15:e51257. [PMID: 38161552 PMCID: PMC10755334 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.51257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Vaping has become widely used by teenagers due to its accessibility, variety of flavors, peer influence, and the thought that it is a less harmful alternative to tobacco smoking. This study aimed to compare the prevalence of vaping among health sciences students compared to other college students in Riyadh and identify reasons for its usage. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in three major universities of Riyadh: King Saud bin Abdulaziz University, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, and Al-Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University. A self-administered online questionnaire related to the use of e-cigarettes and conventional cigarettes was utilized. It included questions about the use of conventional cigarettes and e-cigarettes and the reasons for using them. Responses were compared between health sciences and non-health sciences students in Riyadh. Results An electronic survey was distributed online, and 442 students responded, but two of them did not agree to participate, so they were removed from the sample. Out of 440 students, 312 (71%) were health sciences students, and 128 (29%) were non-health sciences students. Smoking conventional cigarettes was found among 38 (12%) health sciences students, and 22 (17%) non-health college students smoked conventional cigarettes (p=0.16). Regarding vaping, 117 (38%) health sciences students smoked e-cigarettes. On the other hand, 47 (39%) non-health college students smoked e-cigarettes (p=0.99). Anxiety/stress relief (54%) and peer influence (46%) were the most common reasons for those who smoked conventional cigarettes. Regarding the most common reasons behind using e-cigarettes, the majority (55%) considered e-cigarettes less harmful than conventional cigarettes. The second most common reason was having no distinctive odor (36%). Conclusion The study found that there was a high prevalence of the self-reported use of e-cigarettes. It appears that the use of conventional cigarette smoking is not as common as e-cigarettes among university students. This study found that university students tend to use e-cigarettes more than conventional cigarettes due to the belief that e-cigarettes are less harmful than conventional cigarettes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulrahman Alhaqbani
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, SAU
- College of Medicine, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Mohammed Alismail
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, SAU
- College of Medicine, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Anas Alotaibi
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, SAU
- College of Medicine, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Ziyad Alibrahim
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, SAU
- College of Medicine, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Abdulhadi Alqahtani
- College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, SAU
- College of Medicine, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Aamir Omair
- Department of Medical Education, College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, SAU
- College of Medicine, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Sami Al-Nasser
- Department of Medical Education, College of Medicine, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, SAU
- College of Medicine, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, SAU
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Doumi R, Khaytan S, Alobaidan AS, Alqahtany BM, Aldosari NM, Almutairi AA, Alanazi AA, Fayed A. Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of E-Cigarettes of Adolescents and Adults in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2998. [PMID: 37998490 PMCID: PMC10671544 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11222998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
E-cigarettes have gained enormous popularity, and their use has increased drastically worldwide. However, little is known regarding adolescents' and adults' knowledge, attitudes, and practices in Saudi Arabia. We conducted a cross-sectional study using a self-administered online-modified WHO GATS questionnaire on a convenience sample approach. Data were collected between January and March 2021 after the alleviation of COVID-19 lockdown measures in Saudi Arabia. Univariate and multivariate regression models were developed to identify independent factors associated with knowledge, attitude, and practice. Our sample (1335) had a mean age of 26.45 ± 10.5 years; nearly half of the participants had poor knowledge about e-cigarettes. The usage and positive attitude were reported by 18.6% and 19.4%, respectively. Around 43.5% of e-cigarette users reported starting or increased use during the COVID-19 pandemic, while 9.5% of participants would recommend it to others. Logistic regressions showed that older participants were more likely to have poor knowledge (OR = 1.02, 95% C.I. = 1.01-1.03) and positive attitudes (OR = 0.98, 95% C.I. = 0.91-0.96). Male participants and smokers (OR = 3.0, 95% C.I. = 2.3-3.8) were more likely to have a positive attitude. However, younger participants were less likely to go for e-cigarettes (OR = 0.95, 95% C.I. = 0.93-0.97), while males (OR = 2.53, 95% C.I. = 1.65-3.86) and smokers (OR = 4.63, 95% C.I. = 3.47-6.18) were more likely to use them. This study indicated a high level of poor knowledge about e-cigarettes. A considerable proportion of participants reported usage and a positive attitude towards them. Older age, male gender, and being a smoker were the main elicited predictors for e-cigarette use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasha Doumi
- College of Medicine, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia; (S.K.); (A.S.A.); (B.M.A.); (N.M.A.); (A.A.A.); (A.A.A.); (A.F.)
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Jirjees F, Dallal Bashi YH, Kharaba Z, Ahmadi K, Barakat M, AlObaidi H. Public awareness, prevalence, and regulations for the sale of electronic cigarettes in Arab countries: A narrative review. Tob Induc Dis 2023; 21:143. [PMID: 37901882 PMCID: PMC10603825 DOI: 10.18332/tid/168435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The majority of the Arab countries have high records of daily tobacco smoking. Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) use has exponentially increased in the past decade in Arab countries. Consumers' willingness to quit smoking traditional cigarettes and their perception of e-cigarettes as a safer alternative to conventional cigarettes have increased the demand for these devices. This narrative review aimed to gather and discuss the available literature on the awareness, prevalence, and sales regulations of e-cigarettes in Arab countries. A search was conducted on electronic databases such as PubMed, Medline, Scopus, and Google Scholar with no time limits until the end of 2021. Some of the recent studies (2019-2021) considered in this review have reported that more than 25% of participants were e-cigarettes users. The prevalence of e-cigarettes has increased drastically with raised awareness of e-cigarettes among the population in these Arab countries. Most of the users of e-cigarettes are young males. In addition, an increase in e-cigarettes use has been reported in females. The policies which regulate trade and sale of e-cigarettes and related products were issued in only three Arab countries. In contrast, regulations for the trade and sale of traditional cigarette products are also applied in some countries to e-cigarette products, banning the sale of e-cigarettes to minors and/or amend smoke-free laws to restrict public use of e-cigarettes. There is a need for a concerted effort to assess the prevalence and significant rise of e-cigarettes consumption in Arab societies to help implement and improve harm reduction policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feras Jirjees
- College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Zelal Kharaba
- College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle, United Kingdom
| | - Keivan Ahmadi
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration Northwest London, Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Muna Barakat
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, School of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Hala AlObaidi
- School of Pharmacy, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
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Song H, Yang X, Yang W, Dai Y, Duan K, Jiang X, Huang G, Li M, Zhong G, Liu P, Chen J. Cigarettes smoking and e-cigarettes using among university students: a cross-section survey in Guangzhou, China, 2021. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:438. [PMID: 36882716 PMCID: PMC9990220 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15350-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is an increase in the use of cigarettes and e-cigarettes worldwide, and the similar trends may be observed in young adults. Since 2014, e-cigarettes have become the most commonly used nicotine products among young adults (Sun et al., JAMA Netw Open 4:e2118788, 2021). With the increase in e-cigarette use and the decrease in use of cigarettes and other tobacco products, however, there is limited information about Chinese smokers, e-cigarettes users and trends in cigarettes and e-cigarettes use among university students. Therefore, our objective was to investigate the using status of cigarettes, e-cigarettes and smoking behavior among the students from 7 universities in Guangzhou, China. METHODS Students at 7 different universities in Guangzhou were investigated online in 2021 through a cross-sectional survey. A total of 10,008 students were recruited and after screening, 9361 participants were adopted in our statistics. Descriptive analysis, Chi-square analysis, and multiple logistic regression analysis were used to explore the smoking status and influencing factors. RESULTS The average age of the 9361 university students was 22.4 years (SD = 3.6). 58.3% of participants were male. 29.8% of the participants smoked or used e-cigarettes. Among the smokers and users of e-cigarettes, 16.7% were e-cigarettes only users, 35.0% were cigarettes only users, and 48.3% were dual users. Males were more likely to smoke or use e-cigarettes. Medical students, students from prestigious Chinese universities, and students with higher levels of education were less likely. Students with unhealthy lifestyles (e.g., drinking alcohol frequently, playing video games excessively, staying up late frequently) were more likely to smoke or use e-cigarettes. Emotion can have significant impacts on both cigarettes and e-cigarettes dual users when choosing cigarettes or e-cigarettes to use. More than half of dual users said they would choose cigarettes when they were depressed and e-cigarettes when they were happy. CONCLUSION We identified factors influencing the use of cigarettes and e-cigarettes among university students in Guangzhou, China. Gender, education level background, specialization, lifestyle habits and emotion all influenced the use of cigarettes and e-cigarettes among university students in Guangzhou, China. Male, low education level, from non-prestigious Chinese universities or vocational schools, non-medical specialization, and presence of unhealthy lifestyles were influencing factors for the use of cigarettes and e-cigarettes among university students in Guangzhou and students with these factors were more likely to smoke or use e-cigarettes. Besides, emotions can influence dual users' choice of products. This study provides more information to better understand young people's preferences for cigarettes and e-cigarettes by elucidating the characteristics of cigarettes and e-cigarettes use, as well as related influencing factors, among university students in Guangzhou. Further research involving more variables connected to the use of cigarettes and e-cigarettes will be required in our future study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjia Song
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangdong Engineering Laboratoty of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Xuemin Yang
- RELX Lab, Shenzhen RELX Tech. Co, Ltd., Shenzhen, 518000, Guangdong, China
| | - Wanchun Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangdong Engineering Laboratoty of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Yuxing Dai
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangdong Engineering Laboratoty of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Kun Duan
- RELX Lab, Shenzhen RELX Tech. Co, Ltd., Shenzhen, 518000, Guangdong, China
| | - Xingtao Jiang
- RELX Lab, Shenzhen RELX Tech. Co, Ltd., Shenzhen, 518000, Guangdong, China
| | - Guangye Huang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangdong Engineering Laboratoty of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangdong Engineering Laboratoty of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Guoping Zhong
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China. .,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangdong Engineering Laboratoty of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
| | - Peiqing Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China. .,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangdong Engineering Laboratoty of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
| | - Jianwen Chen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, Guangdong, China. .,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory of Druggability and New Drugs Evaluation, Guangdong Engineering Laboratoty of Druggability and New Drug Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China.
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Health Literacy and Smoking Habits Among a Sample of Jordanian University Students. J Community Health 2023; 48:30-37. [PMID: 36107378 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-022-01139-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Limited health literacy is a significant predictor of engaging in unhealthy behaviors. However, the literature regarding the association between health literacy and smoking in university students is very limited. Thus, this study was conducted to examine the association between university students' health literacy and smoking habits. A cross-sectional design was used. A sample of university students (N = 327) was recruited to conduct this study. Data collection was performed using a demographics questionnaire and the health literacy questionnaire. AMOS was used to conduct data analysis using structural equation modeling analysis with maximum likelihood estimation. Different versions of the structural model were compared and evaluated based on specific fit indices criteria. The results showed that 30% of the participants were current smokers. Smoking cigarettes was the most common type of smoking in this study, and 23.1% of the participants were current users of two or more types of smoking (e.g., cigarettes and hookah). The structural model with three latent variables (health literacy, smoking status and type, and smoking frequency and duration) was the one that best fit the data; the model fit indices were X2 = 305.84, df = 102, p < .001; RMSEA = .068; CFI = .95; CMIN/df = 2.51; TLI = .929; and AIC = 355.75. A single standard deviation increase of health literacy causes .38 decrease in smoking status and type and .13 decrease of smoking frequency and duration. The results showed that health literacy is negatively associated with smoking in a sample of Jordanian university students.
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AlMuhaissen S, Mohammad H, Dabobash A, Nada MQ, Suleiman ZM. Prevalence, Knowledge, and Attitudes among Health Professions Students toward the Use of Electronic Cigarettes. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:2420. [PMID: 36553944 PMCID: PMC9778119 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10122420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Healthcare professionals are standing against the widespread use of e-cigarettes among the population, especially young adults. E-cigarettes are generally introduced, especially via social media platforms, as a safer alternative to conventional cigarette smoking. The aim of this study was to measure the prevalence of e-cigarette use among healthcare professions students at the University of Jordan, as well as to explore their knowledge and attitudes toward the use of e-cigarettes. An anonymous Google-Form®-based cross-sectional questionnaire was presented to potential participants at the University of Jordan. Students' responses were analyzed using SPSS® 23.0 software. A total of 679 online surveys were completed. About 37.4% of students reported using e-cigarettes at least once in their lifetime and about 20% of students were current e-cigarette users. The multivariate analysis showed that the factors associated with E-cigarette smoking are being male, having mothers, siblings, or friends using e-cigarettes, having easy access to e-cigarettes, and having social media as the main source of knowledge regarding e-cigarettes. The relatively high acceptance level and use of e-cigarettes among health professions students should be an alarming sign to decision-makers to give more attention to legislation that controls tobacco products including e-cigarette selling and advertising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suha AlMuhaissen
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Haneen Mohammad
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Afnan Dabobash
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Marya Q. Nada
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Zahra M. Suleiman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
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Aly AS, Mamikutty R, Marhazlinda J. Association between Harmful and Addictive Perceptions of E-Cigarettes and E-Cigarette Use among Adolescents and Youth-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:1678. [PMID: 36360406 PMCID: PMC9689130 DOI: 10.3390/children9111678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recognising the association between the perceived risks of e-cigarettes and e-cigarette usage among youth is critical for planning effective prevention and intervention initiatives; thus, a systematic review and meta-analysis were performed. METHODS Fourteen databases were searched for eligible studies from the Inception of database until March 2022 to examine the effect estimates of the association between perceptions of harmfulness and addictiveness and overall e-cigarette usage among adolescents and youth. RESULTS The meta-analysis showed that in comparison to non-users, young people who were ever e-cigarette users were two times more likely to disagree that e-cigarettes are harmful (OR: 2.20, 95% CI: 1.41-3.43) and perceived e-cigarettes as less harmful than tobacco cigarettes (OR: 2.01, 95% CI 1.47-2.75). Youths who were ever e-cigarette users were also 2.3 and 1.8 times more likely to perceive e-cigarettes as less addictive (OR: 2.28, 95% CI: 1.81-2.88) or perceive e-cigarettes as more addictive (OR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.22-2.73) than tobacco cigarettes, as compared with non-users. The subgroup analysis reported that adolescents were more likely to believe that e-cigarettes are less harmful than tobacco cigarettes, while youth users perceived otherwise. CONCLUSION the risk perceptions of e-cigarettes are associated with e-cigarette use among adolescents and youth and could be the focus of health promotion to prevent and curb the uptake of e-cigarettes among young people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ameera Syafiqah Aly
- Department of Community Oral Health and Clinical Prevention, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
- Oral Health Program, Ministry of Health, Putrajaya 62590, Malaysia
| | - Rokiah Mamikutty
- Oral Health Program, Ministry of Health, Putrajaya 62590, Malaysia
| | - Jamaludin Marhazlinda
- Department of Community Oral Health and Clinical Prevention, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
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Campo L, Lumia S, Fustinoni S. Assessing Smoking Habits, Attitudes, Knowledge, and Needs among University Students at the University of Milan, Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12527. [PMID: 36231827 PMCID: PMC9566438 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND College campuses and universities are valuable settings for smoking prevention programs targeting young adults. AIM To investigate smoking habits, electronic cigarette (e-cig) and heated tobacco product (HTP) use, exposure to passive smoke, compliance with smoking bans on campus, attitudes toward the anti-smoking policies, and educational needs among students at the University of Milan, Italy. METHODS A validated questionnaire was web-submitted to 64,801 students in the period May-July 2021. For each item, the frequency was calculated and χ2 test with Bonferroni correction was used to compare differences among the 10 faculties of the University. RESULTS 7162 students participated in the survey, while 6605 questionnaires were included in this report (62% female, 84% aged 18-25 years). Sixty-four percent of participants were never smokers, 19% were smokers, 2.8% were e-cig or HTP users, 3.7% were dual smokers, 10% were former smokers, and 66% reported routinely spending free time with smokers. Almost all students were aware of the dangers of active and passive smoking of cigarettes, while about 20% did not have an opinion on the dangers of e-cigs/HTPs. Only 49% were aware of the smoking ban in the outdoor areas of the university. Students from the faculties of Law and Political, Economic, and Social Sciences smoked more frequently and were more frequently exposed to passive smoke than other students. Medicine students were the most aware of the dangers of passive smoking and using e-cigs/HTPs. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study in Italy involving the entire student population of a university and highlighting differences among faculties in terms of active and passive smoking and opinions. The results suggest that prevention campaigns addressed to students should consider their specific study curricula and give information tailored to the different educational needs to efficiently support health promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Campo
- EPIGET—Epidemiology, Epigenetics, and Toxicology Lab, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Lumia
- EPIGET—Epidemiology, Epigenetics, and Toxicology Lab, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milano, Italy
| | - Silvia Fustinoni
- EPIGET—Epidemiology, Epigenetics, and Toxicology Lab, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milano, Italy
- Environmental and Industrial Toxicology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
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15
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Sohn M, Im B, Suh M, Lee HJ. Korean college students’ attitudes toward a tobacco-free campus: a cross-sectional descriptive study. CHILD HEALTH NURSING RESEARCH 2022; 28:124-131. [PMID: 35538724 PMCID: PMC9091767 DOI: 10.4094/chnr.2022.28.2.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: A tobacco-free campus (TFC) is the most advanced tobacco-control policy for college campuses, but it has rarely been explored in Korea. This study aimed to explore Korean college students’ attitudes toward TFC and related factors.Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study enrolled college students who were taking an elective course on smoking cessation and a healthy lifestyle at a university located in Incheon, Korea. Data were collected from March 1 to December 31, 2019 using a structured questionnaire, and study participants were recruited using convenience sampling.Results: Data on 309 college students were analyzed. Of those participants, 6.1% supported the TFC policy. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that female gender (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=5.80, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.47-22.95), taking the course to quit smoking oneself (aOR=11.03, 95% CI=1.04-117.05), anxiety in the past month (aOR=4.27, 95% CI=1.06-17.31), and being a current smoker (aOR=0.06, 95% CI=0.01-0.70) were statistically significant independent predictors of TFC support.Conclusion: Women, students taking the course to quit smoking themselves, nonsmokers, and students who felt anxious in the past month were more likely to support TFC. Further research with more representative samples is required to examine the characteristics of people who favor TFC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Sohn
- Professor, Department of Nursing, Inha University, Incheon, Korea
- Corresponding author Min Sohn Department of Nursing, Inha University, 100 Inha-ro, Incheon 22212, Korea TEL: +82-32-860-8212 FAX: +82-32-874-5880 E-MAIL:
| | - Boae Im
- Researcher, Department of Nursing, Inha University, Incheon, Korea
| | - Minhee Suh
- Professor, Department of Nursing, Inha University, Incheon, Korea
| | - Hun Jae Lee
- Professor, College of Medicine, Inha University, Incheon, Korea
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