Knowledge and Perception of Vaping Health Risks among Adults in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Rasha Hegazy*, Randa AlGhoraibi, Rawan Aljedaani, Lama AlShangiti and Ghadi Al-Ghamdi

Background: E-cigarettes are becoming increasingly popular among teenagers and young adults throughout the world. It is generally a battery-operated gadget to deliver nicotine, taste, and additional substances.

Objectives: The main objective of this study is to investigate the level of awareness and perception of electronic cigarette health risks among adult residents in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Method: A cross-sectional study aimed to understand the level of awareness and perception of adults aged between 18 to 45 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, about e-cigarettes through an online survey. The questions assessed their knowledge and understanding in terms of the safety and health issues of e-cigarettes.

Results: Out of 624 targeted respondents, 426 fulfilled the inclusion criteria and filled the questionnaire producing a response rate of 68.3%. The findings revealed that a majority of respondents (77.5%) reported personal acquaintance with individuals who vape. Moreover, 59.2% expressed the belief that vaping is not safer than regular cigarettes and tobacco products. Concerns about the presence of dangerous chemical substances in electronic cigarettes were shared by 69.0% of participants. Additionally, 82.9% believed that the flavors used in electronic cigarettes are harmful. Notably, a high percentage (95.1%) of respondents expressed the view that exposing children to electronic cigarette vaping is unsafe. Concerning secondhand exposure, 78.6% believed that exposing nonsmokers to electronic cigarette vaping can cause harm. Furthermore, a substantial majority (85%) considered vaping to be unsafe for pregnant women compared to tobacco cigarettes. Lastly, 63.5% did not perceive vaping as a safer alternative to nicotine patches or gums.

Conclusion: Our research reveals that the majority of participants in Jeddah are acquainted with individuals who vape. While most respondents are aware of the health risks associated with vaping, some have doubts regarding these risks. Therefore, we recommend increasing awareness campaigns to educate the population about the potential hazards of vaping.