Knowledge, Awareness And Attitude Of Parents Of Pre-Adolescents, Adolescents And Teens Towards Vaping- A Questionnaire Study

Abstract

Background: Electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), including vapes, are increasingly used by adolescents, often perceived as safer than conventional cigarettes. Parental knowledge and attitudes are critical for early prevention; however, evidence from India remains limited. This study assessed parental knowledge, awareness, and attitudes toward vaping among children and adolescents in Mumbai.

Methods: A cross-sectional, close-ended questionnaire-based survey was conducted among parents of pre-adolescents (9–12 years), adolescents, and teens (13–19 years) in Mumbai from March–May 2024 following Institutional Ethical Review Board approval (IREB/2024/PEDO/06). A content-validated 11-item questionnaire was disseminated via Google Forms through WhatsApp to 350 parents. Of 290 responses received, 46 incomplete responses were excluded; 246 complete responses were analyzed using SPSS v30. Associations were assessed using Chi-square test with p<0.05.

Results: Overall, 73.1% parents were aware of the term “vapes,” and 61.6% perceived vaping to be as addictive as cigarettes; 31% believed vapes always contain nicotine. Only 40% parents perceived that their child was familiar with vaping, while 54.3% believed social media influencers strongly impact their child’s perception. Regarding harms, 55.9% reported adverse overall health effects and 57.6% believed vaping can affect oral health (11% were unsure). Most parents (68.6%) believed neither cigarettes nor vaping is safe. Although vapes are banned in India, 34.7% perceived they remain available in street shops. Device recognition errors were notable, with 40% identifying an incorrect image as a vape.

Conclusion: Despite relatively high awareness, parents demonstrate important knowledge gaps regarding vaping devices and health, including oral effects. Pediatric dentists can contribute through screening and targeted parental and youth education.