The Era of E-Cigarettes: A Cross-Sectional Study of Vaping Preferences, Reasons for Use and Withdrawal Symptoms Among Current E-Cigarette Users in the United Arab Emirates.

Introduction:
This text is a summary of a research study examining the use of electronic cigarettes (E-cig) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The study focuses on vaping preferences, reasons for using E-cig, and withdrawal symptoms experienced during fasting in the holy month of Ramadan. The research is based on a cross-sectional study conducted with a convenience sample of 591 adult E-cig users.

Key Points:

* The study found that E-cig use is gaining popularity in the UAE after recent legalization.
* Most participants (80.9%) believed that E-cigs are less harmful than tobacco cigarettes.
* The most common type of E-cig used was vape tank/Box-mod (50.3%).
* During fasting time, 46.2% of E-cig users experienced physical symptoms, while 51.0% experienced psychological symptoms.
* The most common physical symptoms were breathing difficulties, sore/itchy throat, and nausea.
* The most common psychological symptoms were intense craving for vaping, restlessness, and poor concentration.
* The study found that the perceived severity of symptoms and quit attempts varied among participants.

Main Message:
The study highlights the need for further research on the safety and effectiveness of E-cig in aiding smoking cessation, particularly in the context of the UAE. The results suggest that E-cig use is becoming more popular in the UAE, and it is important to understand the potential health impacts of this trend. The study also emphasizes the importance of considering the influence of concurrent poly-tobacco use and the potential impact of fasting on withdrawal symptoms. Overall, the main message of the study is the need for more robust data and a higher level of evidence to inform policy and practice around E-cig use in the UAE.

Barakat M, Jirjees F, Al-Tammemi AB, et al. The Era of E-Cigarettes: A Cross-Sectional Study of Vaping Preferences, Reasons for Use and Withdrawal Symptoms Among Current E-Cigarette Users in the United Arab Emirates. Journal of community health. 2021;46(5):876-886. doi:10.1007/s10900-021-00967-4