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

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.