Knowledge, Frequency, and Perceptions of E-cigarettes among Medical Students at Rawalpindi Medical University: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: E-cigarettes are classified as tobacco products by the FDA and CDC due to their nicotine content. Their use is increasing globally, especially among youth. Medical students are expected to be well-informed due to their direct patient interactions. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine the awareness, frequency, and perceptions of medical students of Rawalpindi Medical University regarding the use of e-cigarettes.

Objectives: The study aims to evaluate the trends, frequency, and perception of e-cigarettes among students at Rawalpindi Medical University.

Materials and Methods: A sample size of 365 was calculated using the OpenEPI calculator, involving currently enrolled students from the first to the fifth year at Rawalpindi Medical University. Variables included were about participants’ cigarette use, frequency, perception, and knowledge. Informed consent was acquired from all participants involved in the study. The chi-square test and the Independent-Samples t-test were used to evaluate the differences between these groups. The analysis was done using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (IBM® SPSS® 27).

Results: Of the 365 students who took part in the survey, 261(71.5%) were female, and 104(28.5%) were male. The participants had an average age of 21.1 ± 2.2 years. Of the total responders, 52(14.2%) smoked traditional cigarettes. Male respondents were much more likely to smoke traditional cigarettes (69.2% vs. 30.8%, p<0.001). Overall, it was found that 249 students, or 68.2%, were aware of e-cigarettes. Most e-cigarette users think that e-cigarettes are safer than non-users (82.8% vs 67%).

Conclusion: A significant portion of respondents demonstrated better awareness, yet e-cigarette usage did not appear to be extensively prevalent within the study sample. Individuals typically viewed e-cigarettes as comparatively safer. Further studies from developing countries are necessary to assess their safety and efficacy as a smoking cessation aid.

Keywords: E-Cigarettes, Perception, Smoking, E-Cig use