PERCEPTIONS OF THE RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH VAPE USE AMONG ADOLESCENTS IN PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Abstract

The use of electronic cigarettes (vapes) has become a growing public health concern due to their potential health risks and increasing popularity among adolescents. This study aimed to understand the perceptions of high school students from public and private schools regarding the risks associated with the use of these devices. This is an exploratory and descriptive study with a qualitative approach, conducted in two schools in Iguatu, Ceará, Brazil, involving adolescents aged 15 to 18 years. Data were collected through questionnaires containing closed- and open-ended questions addressing sociodemographic characteristics and knowledge about electronic cigarettes. The data were analyzed using content analysis. The study was submitted to and approved by a Research Ethics Committee, in accordance with ethical guidelines for research involving human participants. The findings revealed that all participants were familiar with electronic cigarettes; however, most demonstrated low or intermediate levels of knowledge regarding their risks, particularly concerning device composition and Brazilian legislation. Social media and friends were identified as the main sources of information. Although most students recognized the association between vape use and respiratory diseases, addiction, and other health problems, curiosity and experimentation remained prevalent, especially among students from private schools. The study concludes that evidence-based educational interventions are needed to strengthen health education and prevent vape use among adolescents.