Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practices regarding E-cigarettes among the smokers in Metropolitan city of Western India

Abstract

Background: Most people still remain unaware of the detrimental effects of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). Hence the present study was conducted to assess the awareness about the use and harmful effects of e-cigarettes among young adults in Pune. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire study was conducted among the smokers in Pune city regarding the use of e-cigarettes. The structured, self-administered close-ended questionnaire was designed to collect the data which consisted of three parts and comprised of 30 questions. The reliability and validity of the instrument were calculated. Informed consent was also taken from participants. Statistical analysis was done using descriptive analysis. Results: In this study there were total of 150 participants between 18 to 75 years of age. Out of 150 participants, 132 participants were male and 17 were female. About 55.4% participants used e-cigarettes while 44.6% participants did not use e-cigarettes. Conclusion: From the data collected, the attitude of the population towards use of e-cigarette was assessed; hence more comprehensive awareness program should be needed in population.