Electronic Smoking Devices Among University Students: Usage Patterns and Chemical Composition of Inhaled Substances

This study investigated the prevalence of electronic smoking device (ESD) use and its associated behavioural and chemical risks among university students in Bahia, Brazil. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 355 students from public and private institutions through an online questionnaire between April and May 2023. Among participants, 25.6% reported having previously used ESDs, and 11% used them daily, with dual use alongside conventional cigarettes being the most common pattern (61.5%). Most users were male (57.1%), single (95.2%) and reported low levels of nicotine dependence. Curiosity, peer influence and flavour variety were the main motivations for use. In parallel, chemical profiling was performed on a commonly consumed e-liquid using DI-SPME-GC-MS and in situ-SPME-GC-MS techniques. A total of 223 compounds were identified in the e-liquid and 185 in the aerosol, including harmful substances, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), phthalic acids and fungicide dinocap. The samples were rich in terpenes, esters and solvents like glycerine and propylene glycol. The presence of toxic volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds highlights potential health risks, especially under repeated exposure. These findings reinforce the urgency of implementing regulatory policies and preventive strategies focused on ESD use in academic environments.