Factors Associated with Current E-Cigarettes Use of Female Workers: Using the 2023 Community Health Survey

Background: The use of e-cigarettes has emerged as a growing public health concern, particularly among females. This study aimed to identify factors associated with e-cigarette use among female workers in Korea.Methods: A secondary data analysis was conducted using representative data from the 2023 Community Health Survey. A final complete- case sample of 70,511 female workers was included in the analysis. Sociodemographic characteristics, health-related behaviors, and psychological factors associated with current e-cigarette use were identified using complex-samples binary logistic regression analysis.Results: Compared with females aged ≥40 years, the odds of current e-cigarette use were higher among females aged 19–29 years (odds ratio [OR]=5.58, 95% confidence interval [CI]=4.42–7.03) and 30–39 years (OR=4.28, 95% CI=3.46–5.30). Single females had higher odds of e-cigarette use than married females (OR=2.07, 95% CI=1.73–2.48). Higher odds were also observed among females reporting stress (OR=1.42, 95% CI=1.12–1.78), depressive symptoms (OR=2.26, 95% CI=1.88–2.71), breakfast consumption <3 times/ wk (OR=2.18, 95% CI=1.85–2.56), and current alcohol use (OR=2.29, 95% CI=1.94–2.71). Females who were aware of smoke-free areas had lower odds of current e-cigarette use than those who were unaware (OR=0.58, 95% CI=0.49–0.65).Conclusions: Among Korean female workers, e-cigarette use was significantly associated with younger age, single marital status, psychological distress, and alcohol use. Workplace health promotion and targeted interventions addressing these risk factors may help reduce e-cigarette use among female workers.