DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS OF PERCEPTIONS ABOUT ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES: A STUDY ON THE INFLUENCE OF RACE AND EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze perceptions, practices, and social positions related to the use of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), considering race/skin color and educational level as central variables among participants in the municipality of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil. This is an opinion survey with a quantitative approach, using a cross-sectional, observational, and descriptive design, conducted between August and December 2024. The sample consisted of 202 adult individuals, selected by convenience in public spaces with high pedestrian flow. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS software, applying descriptive statistics and association tests, with a significance level of p < 0.05. The results indicated a high level of self-reported knowledge about ENDS across all racial groups and educational levels, although relevant variations were observed regarding use patterns, trust in received information, and regulatory positioning. Greater support for a complete ban was identified among Indigenous and mixed-race participants, as well as among individuals with lower educational attainment, while the media predominated as the main source of information. It is concluded that race/skin color and educational level significantly influence perceptions and attitudes toward electronic cigarettes, highlighting the need for public policies and educational strategies sensitive to social inequalities and social determinants of health.