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E-cigarette usage and mental health among undergraduate medical and health sciences students

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of e-cigarette usage and its correlation with mental health disorders among undergraduate medical and health sciences students. A descriptive cross-sectional correlational study was conducted among 320 undergraduate students from four colleges (MBBS, BDS, B Pharm, BSN) at RAK Medical and Health Sciences University in the UAE. Stratified random sampling was used, and data was collected through face-to-face interviews using validated mental health assessment tools. Approximately one-third (35%) reported using vape, with a statistically significant relationship found between vaping and the socio-demographic characteristics of the students, such as sex and college type (P ≤ 0.05). Moreover, there was a significant correlation between vaping and depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. However, there were no significant correlations found between vaping and self-esteem or eating disorders. Vaping is prevalent among undergraduate medical and health sciences students and is linked to compromised mental health. These findings underscore the need for targeted mental health campaigns and e-cigarette screening programs. Further longitudinal studies are necessary to explore causal relationships.

Source: Scientific Reports

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-94545-6

Authors: Fatma Magdi Ibrahim, Ghada Shahrour, Aya Hashim, Arwa Yasin, Abdallah R. Allam

Institutions: Mansoura University, Ras al-Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Menoufia University

Language: English

Topic: Smoking Behavior and Cessation

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,690