29th Annual Student Research Conference
College Students' Health Perceptions of Electronic Cigarette Use
Meghan R. Meyers
Dr. Janice Clark, Faculty Mentor
Tobacco cigarette use continues to be a public health issue, with over 12% of college students reported as smokers. Electronic cigarettes are marketed as a ?healthier? alternative to tobacco cigarettes. Without research to document safe use or federal legislation regulating use, e-cigarettes may also become a public health threat. With the enactment of tobacco-free campuses, college students may choose e-cigarettes. A 40-question online survey was administered to determine knowledge, behaviors, and beliefs of 381 Midwestern college students. Over 90% of participants were non-smokers with an average knowledge score of 74%, and 57% believed e-cigarettes were healthier than tobacco cigarettes. Males and students with lower GPAs were more likely to smoke. While 94% understood the negative health effects of second-hand smoke, only 45% identified negative effects for e-cigarette vapor. E-cigarette safety programs are needed on college campuses, especially targeting males and students with lower GPAs.
Keywords: Tobacco, Electronic Cigarettes, College Students, Health
Topic(s):Health Science
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: -2
Location: MG 1098
Time: 1:15