Knowledge of Tunisian physicians about electronic cigarettes.

Abstract

Introduction: The electronic cigarette is a new-generation smoking product whose mechanism of use could, in theory, minimize adverse health effects.

Aim: Determine the knowledge and perceptions of a sample of Tunisian doctors regarding electronic cigarettes.

Methods: We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study over a two-month period with a sample of Tunisian doctors. We used an online self-questionnaire on physicians' knowledge and perceptions of e-cigarettes.

Results: Data were obtained from 216 physicians. Of the participants, 97.2% were familiar with e-cigarettes, 56.5% reported low knowledge, and 83.4% expressed motivation to learn more about e-cigarettes. Overall, 83.8% of doctors felt that electronic cigarettes are harmful to the user's health. Use of this product would increase the risk of cancer according to 73.1% of participants, the risk of cardiovascular disease according to 68.5% of participants, and the risk of chronic lung disease according to 79.2% of participants. The perception of e-cigarettes as harmful to the user's health was associated with the physicians' medical specialty (p=0.032). The recommendation of e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation tool was negatively correlated with addictology training (p=0.027).

Conclusions: Physicians' knowledge of electronic cigarettes is heterogeneous, reflecting the current lack of information and consensus.