Attitudes and behaviors regarding e-cigarettes in high-school and college students from Mexico.

<bold>Background</bold>. The use of e-cigarettes has increased dramatically among young people. Data from the US and UK showed that high-school students have increased the use of e-cigarettes from 1.5% to 13.4% and from 7.7% to 22.3%, respectively in the last decade. In Mexico, data from 2017 showed that 10% of students between 12-14 years have used e-cigarettes. Due to the lack of regulations, on May 31, 2022, a proclamation was issued prohibiting the sale and distribution of e-cigarettes; since then, no studies have evaluated attitudes and behaviors regarding e-cigarettes. <bold>Objective</bold>. To explore current use, knowledge and attitudes of e-cigarettes in high-school and college students from Mexico after banning e-cigarettes. <bold>Methods</bold>. Cross-sectional study based on a survey via google forms™ to high-school and college students. <bold>Results</bold>. 3,675 surveys were carried out. The mean age was 18±3 years, 56% were women. 67% of respondents were in high-school, 35% have used e-cigarettes starting at 16±2 years and the common reason was due to flavors (74%).9 out of 10 respondents are aware of the detrimental effect on health caused by e-cigarettes. Multivariate logistic regression model showed that current e-cigarettes users are 7 and 12 times more likely to vape marijuana and smoke tobacco respectively. Students from private schools are 1.5 times more likely to use e-cigarettes and for every year of age, the probability of using an electronic cigarette increases by 20%. <bold>Conclusion</bold>. In Mexico, despite prohibiting the sale of e-cigarettes, the rate of use has increased 3-fold. This significant change should consolidate preventive health policies focused on adolescents in relation to consequences of e-cigarettes.