The Perception of Vaping Product-Associated Lung Injuries

Abstract

Background: Vaping is a new form of smoking introduced and marketed as a safer and healthier alternative than traditional cigarettes. As more additives and flavors are added, the less is understood regarding long-term side effects, particularly in the respiratory system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the general population’s perception about vaping and its knowledge about vaping-related lung injuries.

Methods: A survey consisting of 29 items was created using Google Forms and distributed via email and social media platforms to volunteer participants at least 18 years of age. Data collected included demographic information, use of vaping, and perceptions about vaping-related side effects. Descriptive statistics were used to report results. IRB approval was obtained.

Results: Data was obtained from 309 participants. The majority of participants were female (n = 186; 60.2%), Hispanic/Latino (n = 170; 55.0%), between the ages of 25 to 39 years of age (n = 124; 40.1%), spoke primarily English (n = 193; 62.5%), worked in healthcare (n = 128; 41.4%), were married (n = 202; 65.4%), and had at least a bachelor’s degree (n = 115; 37.2%). Overall (76.7%) of participants reported never using tobacco or vaping products, and almost double of those who smoked or had smoked reported using tobacco products more than vaping products (11.0% and 5.8%, respectively). When asked if vaping can be used as a means to quitting smoking, 56.6% answered NO, only 14.2% answered YES, and 29.1% answered MAYBE. Among those who vaped (12.3%), only 5.2% believed it was a healthier option, and (22.0%) remained undecided that vaping could lead to negative health effects. Majority of participants believed that it is unsafe to use tobacco products and that vaping products are unsafe (98.7% and 97.4%, respectively). Most participants considered that vaping can cause lung disease (64.1%), but almost a third (31.7%) were undecided.

Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that a significant portion of participants evaluated poorly understood the adverse effects of vaping. Additional research in this area and public awareness may be necessary to change the overall perception of vaping and its effects on the pulmonary system.