Differences in e-cigarette use, dependence, and knowledge between health and social sciences university students in Costa Rica

Abstract

Introduction: The use of vapes or electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) has increased worldwide. However, studies evaluating their use among university students in Latin American countries remain scarce. Consequently, the level of knowledge that students have about these devices is not well understood. Moreover, emerging evidence suggests that e-cigarette use may be associated with periodontal diseases. Objectives: To estimate the prevalence and dependence of e-cigarette use, compare knowledge regarding these devices, and examine the association between e-cigarette use and self-perceived periodontal health among Health Sciences (HS) and Social Sciences (SS) students. Methods: An online cross-sectional questionnaire was conducted among HS and SS students aged 18-30 years, of the Rodrigo Facio Campus, University of Costa Rica. Results: A total of 771 students answered the questionnaire, 494 of HS and 277 of SS. Mean age of participants was 21,713(±2,780) years. The prevalence of e-cigarettes use was 9% in HS students and 22% in SS students (p<0.001). Most e-cigarette users from both groups, reported having no dependence on e-cigarettes (p=0.168). SS students who vaped, reported a greater medium dependence compared to HS (p=0.039). No differences were found between groups on high dependence (p=0.764). HS students were more informed about health risks associated with e-cigarettes (p<0.05). HS students were more aware of toxic compounds commonly found in e-cigarettes, compared to SS students (p<0.05). SS students are seeking information about e-cigarettes from less reliable sources (p<0.001). HS students that vaped, observed changes in the color of their gums (p<0.002). This was not perceived by SS students. Conclusions: Compared to SS students, HS students reported lower use and less medium dependence of e-cigarettes, were relatively more well-informed about health risks and harmful substances in e-cigarettes, sought information from more reliable sources, and those who vaped, perceived a detrimental change in periodontal health. It is important to provide university students with further education on vaping, including where to seek evidenced-based information of adverse effects.