Factors associated with the use of electronic cigarettes among youths

Abstract

Background: Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are rapidly becoming a popular new trend among youths and adolescents. However, there is little information available about the causes of e-cigarette use in youths, especially the mental, belief/attitude, and marketing factors that lead to e-cigarette usage. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the factors associated with e-cigarette use among youths. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 1164 youths, administering a self-report questionnaire relating to the risk factors for e-cigarette usage: individual, family and friends, mental, belief/attitude, and marketing factors. We used logistic regression analysis to examine the factors and their association with e-cigarette use. Results: The prevalence of current e-cigarette use was 10.6%, while 19.4% of participants had used e-cigarettes at some time in their lives. History of drug use and attitudes about e-cigarette use (e-cigarettes are not harmful to health, using e-cigarettes can help stop smoking, and e-cigarettes help people improve social skills) were significantly associated with the current use of e-cigarettes. GPAX was a protective factor against current e-cigarette use. Conclusion: E-cigarette use is relatively high among youths. We discovered erroneous beliefs and attitudes (misunderstanding or disinformation regarding the harmful effects of e-cigarette use). Interventions to enhance knowledge about e-cigarettes are required for youths to reduce current e-cigarette use.