Impactos do uso de cigarro eletrônico na saúde mental de estudantes universitários: um estudo transversal

Abstract

 Electronic cigarettes have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among young people, and are frequently perceived as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes. However, their impact on mental health remains poorly understood. Research indicates that the nicotine contained in these devices can directly affect the central nervous system, potentially exacerbating symptoms of anxiety and depression. This cross-sectional study examined the relationship between electronic cigarette use and mental health among students at a college in Northwestern Paraná, Brazil. A total of 401 students completed an online questionnaire assessing electronic cigarette use, sociodemographic characteristics, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. Results showed that 42.5% of respondents had used electronic cigarettes at least once, and among them, 23.3% reported using the device to cope with stress and anxiety. Additionally, 73.5% of participants reported experiencing anxiety symptoms, and 41.8% believed that vaping helped alleviate these symptoms. However, existing research indicates that nicotine may exacerbate anxiety and depression over time, leading to a cycle of dependence. Despite the ban on the sale of electronic smoking devices in Brazil, their use continues to rise. These findings highlight the urgent need for educational campaigns to raise awareness about the mental health risks of electronic cigarette use and emphasize the importance of implementing effective tobacco control strategies aimed at young people.