Perception about E-Cigarettes in Malaysia: Sociodemographic Correlates

Authors

  • Yong Kang Cheah Universiti Utara Malaysia
  • Chien Huey Teh Institute for Medical Research
  • Kuang Hock Lim Institute for Medical Research
  • Chee Cheong Kee National Institutes of Health

Abstract

Introduction: The prevalence of e-cigarette smoking is increasing. Many people still have a poor understanding of the risks of e-cigarettes. The purpose of this study is to examine sociodemographic factors associated with knowledge about e-cigarettes with a focus on the perception that e-cigarettes are less dangerous than regular cigarettes.
Methods: Multivariable logistic regressions are utilised to estimate the effects of sociodemographic factors on the likelihood of having the perception that e-cigarettes are less dangerous than regular cigarettes. These regressions are stratified by ethnic groups. A Malaysian nationwide survey that consists of a large sample size (n = 4176) is used for secondary analysis.
Results: Age, gender and educational level are associated with the perception about e-cigarettes. Older individuals are less likely to think that e-cigarettes are less dangerous than regular cigarettes compared with younger individuals. Males are more likely to have the perception that e-cigarettes are less dangerous than regular cigarettes relative to females. Having primary or secondary educational level rather than tertiary educational level is associated with a reduced likelihood of having the perception that e-cigarettes are less dangerous than regular cigarettes.
Conclusions: Sociodemographic factors play an important role in determining the perception about e-cigarettes. Nationwide policies directed toward improving knowledge about e-cigarettes among individuals who think that e-cigarettes are less dangerous than regular cigarettes may be effective in lowering the risk of suffering from the currently unknown long-term negative effect of e-cigarettes.

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Published

2022-03-03

How to Cite

Cheah, Y. K., Teh, C. H., Lim, K. H., & Kee, C. C. (2022). Perception about E-Cigarettes in Malaysia: Sociodemographic Correlates. International Journal of Public Health Research, 12(1). Retrieved from https://spaj.ukm.my/ijphr/index.php/ijphr/article/view/345