Vaping and Hookah Use Among Medical Trainees: A Multinational Survey Study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Medical Education

Background:

• E-cigarette and hookah use is a growing public health concern, particularly among young consumers.
• Understanding usage patterns among medical trainees is crucial for public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the frequency and patterns of e-cigarette and hookah use among medical trainees.
• To identify factors associated with current vaping and hookah use in a multinational cohort.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional multinational online survey was conducted among medical students, residents, and fellows in Brazil, the U.S., and India.
• Data collected included sociodemographics, mental health, and substance use (e-cigarettes, hookah, tobacco, marijuana, alcohol).
• Generalized structural equation models were used to analyze factors associated with current vaping and hookah use.

Main Results:

• Overall, 7,526 participants were recruited. Current vaping was reported by 20% in Brazil, 11% in the U.S., and <1% in India.
• Current hookah use was reported by 10% in Brazil, 6% in the U.S., and 1% in India.
• Higher family income, cigarette smoking, marijuana use, and binge drinking were associated with both current vaping and hookah use.

Conclusions:

• E-cigarette and hookah use is prevalent among medical trainees in Brazil and the U.S., contrasting sharply with India.
• Cultural factors and public health policies likely influence these international differences.
• Addressing e-cigarette and hookah use in medical trainees is vital to prevent the renormalization of smoking.