Insights Into Electronic-Cigarette Perspectives: Smokers' Knowledge Attitudes and Practices at Hamad Medical Corporation, 2020.

Abstract

Purpose: The rising use of electronic cigarettes alongside traditional tobacco presents a global health concern. Despite this, little is known about smokers' knowledge and attitudes toward electronic cigarettes in Qatar. This study addresses this gap by exploring the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of electronic cigarette use among smokers attending cessation clinics in Qatar.

Patients and methods: This analytical cross-sectional study involved 453 adult smokers, recruited through systematic random sampling at the Tobacco Control Center (TCC) in Qatar in 2020. Participants were interviewed via phone using a structured 42-item questionnaire after providing verbal consent. A cut-off score of 3 or higher indicated good knowledge, while a score of 1 or higher reflected a positive attitude. Bivariate analyses followed by logistic regression identified predictors of good knowledge and electronic cigarette use.

Results: Of the 453 participants, the average age was 38.9 ± 8.9 years, with most being male (95.1%, n=429), married (77.9%, n=353), and university-educated (64.7%, n=293). Participants had smoked for an average of 18.5± 9.1 years, consuming 15.3 cigarettes per day. Low nicotine dependence was found in 36% (n=163), while 5.5% (n=25) were highly dependent. About 60.2% (n=259) demonstrated good knowledge of electronic cigarettes, but 69% held negative attitudes ((n=289). Nearly half (48.3%, n=219) had tried electronic cigarettes, with 55.2% using them for cessation attempts (n=121). Age, marital status, education, and income levels were significantly associated with knowledge and practice, with high income (≥ 30,000 QR/month) predicting both good knowledge and use.

Conclusion: Although smokers are generally aware of electronic cigarettes, gaps persist in understanding their contents and health effects. Negative attitudes persist, yet half of current smokers have experimented with them. Tailored education and regulations are needed to dispel misconceptions and minimize risks for smokers in Qatar.