Knowledge and practice on vaping among undergraduate students in a private university in Kajang

Sia, Chee Yan (2023) Knowledge and practice on vaping among undergraduate students in a private university in Kajang. Final Year Project, UTAR.

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Abstract

BACKGROUND: Vaping is generally perceived as more attractive than traditional cigarettes due to factors like accessibility, affordability, stylish designs, and ease of use. However, many studies found that misconceptions exist, such as perceiving vaping as less harmful and less addictive than smoking, even as a smoking cessation aid. These misunderstandings have contributed to a surge in usage, particularly among young people, despite associated health risks. OBJECTIVE: To determine the knowledge level and practice on vaping among undergraduate students in a private university in Kajang. METHODOLOGY: A quantitative, cross-sectional survey was conducted among 200 undergraduate students at a private university in Kajang. Participants were recruited using quota sampling method. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to participants through face-to-face approach. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 27. RESULTS: Majority of the participants (70.5%) exhibited good level of knowledge on vaping, while 21.0% reported being current vapers. Chi-square analysis indicated significant association between knowledge level on vaping and both the participants' major of study and smoking status. Regarding vaping practices, statistically significant associations were found with age, gender, major of study and smoking status. There was a significant association between knowledge level and practice on vaping. CONCLUSION: Majority of university students demonstrated good knowledge level on vaping (70.5%) and vaping practice was 21.0%. Significant associations were found between knowledge and practice, emphasizing the necessity for comprehensive vaping control strategies, including health education talks and awareness campaigns, to decrease its use among university students. KEYWORDS: Vaping, electronic cigarette, knowledge, practice, university students

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