Knowledge and risk perception of e-cigarettes and hookah among young adults in Anambra State, Nigeria

E-cigarettes and hookah have gained significant popularity, particularly among young people in recent years, despite limited research on their safety and efficacy. Advertisements for these products are widespread across various media platforms, further increasing their popularity and raising awareness among young adults. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and risk perception of e-cigarettes and hookah among young adults in Anambra State, Nigeria.

This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in three tertiary institutions, selected through simple random sampling from the three Senatorial Districts of Anambra State. Participants (n = 272), aged 18-35 years, were recruited using a multi-stage stratified random sampling technique. A self- administered, semi- structured questionnaires was shared amongst students of the three tertiary institutions that met the inclusion criteria. Descriptive statistics were generated, and chi-square tests were conducted to determine the level of significance at p < 0.05.

The study showed that the majority of participants (66.7%) sourced their information about e-cigarettes and hookah primarily from the internet/media, although 58.5% reported never having seen these substances in person. Among the participants, 7.4% reported using both e-cigarettes and hookah, with the highest prevalence of use seen in the 25-29 age group. The first use of these substances commonly occurred in cafés/restaurants (7.4%) and nightclubs (6.6%). Majority (64.7%) perceived both e-cigarettes and hookah as equally harmful in terms of health risks, while 50.7% considered both substances equally addictive. Participants identified respiratory (65.4%) and cardiovascular (71.7%) diseases as the primary health risks associated with the use of these substances.

This study demonstrates a high level of awareness of the health risks, addictive nature, and harmful effects of e-cigarette and hookah use among young adults in Anambra State. However, there appears to be a lack of in-depth, comprehensive understanding of the broader implications of these risks. The prevalence of use in social settings reveals the need for targeted, detailed education on their risks. Incorporating these products into smoke-free policies and regulating access in environments frequented by young adults are essential to curbing their growing use and associated health risks.