Prevalence and Risk Factors of E-cigarette Users in Thai College Student

Background: Electronic cigarette (E-cigarette) has gained popularity internationally. It was claimed to be a novel way of smoking cessation. Previous reports regarding E-cigarette in Thai college student were limited. We investigated the prevalence, characteristics, and risk factors of e-cigarette smoking in Thai college students. Method: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study of prevalence, characteristics and risk factors of E-cigarette user in college students in Bangkok in January 2018. We used simple random sampling method and self-interviewed anonymous online questionnaire. The primary outcome was the prevalence of E-cigarette user. Secondary outcome were the characteristics and risk factors of E-cigarette users. Result: There were 1302 college students which 535 students (41.1%) were male, and 767 students (58.9%) were female. 289 students (22.2%) were E-cigarette users. 223 students had history of both cigarette and E-cigarette used. History of cigarette used in 30 days, history of cigarette used not in 30 days, water pipe user, marijuana user and male were risk factors of using E-cigarette by adjusted odds ratio 24.59 (95% CI 13.31- 45.43), 15.12 (95% CI 9.06 – 25.23), 10.08 (95% CI 6.38 – 15.92), 11.59 (95% CI 4.61 – 29.14), 1.90 (95% CI 1.25 – 2.90) respectively. Studying in non-health faculties was the risk factor for E-cigarette used with adjusted odds ratio of 2.07 (95% CI 1.05 – 4.10). Conclusion: Prevalence of E-cigarette users in Thai college student was high. Risk factors included male, history of cigarette smoking, marijuana use, water pipe and studying in non-health associated faculty. Effective control and education are needed.