Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Electronic smoking has become a growing concern among young university students due to its popularity and potential health risks. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the prevalence and factors associated with the use of electronic cigarettes. METHODS: this is a cross-sectional study in which young people aged between 18 and 40 years of both sexes were chosen to participate and who could answer a questionnaire via google form. RESULTS: They reveal that 56.8% of the participants use electronic cigarettes at least once a month, and 21.6% more frequently. The main motivation for use was identified as self-desire and fad, with the influence of friends also being significant. Respiratory problems were reported by 15.2% of users after starting use. CONCLUSION: study concludes that there is an urgent need for awareness campaigns and highlights the essential role of physiotherapy in the treatment of respiratory problems associated with the use of electronic cigarettes. Keywords: electronic smoking, young university students, prevalence, respiratory health, physical therapy.
DOI:https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2024.031-011