Knowledge, Perception, and Use of Vape Among the Saudi Population in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Vaping has emerged as a significant trend within the broader context of global tobacco use, posing new public health challenges. Aim: To assess the knowledge, perception, and use of vaping among the Saudi population in Riyadh. Methodology: A cross-sectional analytic study design, conducted from September 2023 to May 2024, involved 353 participants selected through a convenience sampling technique. Data collection was facilitated via a self-administered structured questionnaire adapted from the CDC and translated into Arabic, focusing on sociodemographic information, vaping knowledge, perceptions, and usage patterns. Results: The results indicated a vaping prevalence of 31.20%. A majority of participants (79.09%) displayed good overall knowledge, though this association was not statistically significant (X2=2.066, P=0.3559). Vapers tended to have a neutral perception of vaping (55.45%), with this association being statistically significant (X2=17.238, P=0.0002). Conclusion: The study revealed that 31% of participants are vape users with good knowledge about vaping's components, health risks, benefits of quitting, and regulations. However, their perception was neutral, viewing vaping as less harmful, less addictive, and less expensive than conventional cigarettes, and potentially assisting both in quitting and starting smoking. Recommendations: There is a need to develop educational programs targeting individuals aged 18 to 22 to address misconceptions and highlight the detrimental effects of vaping, aiming to shift perceptions and reduce its prevalence in this age group.