Abstract
INTRODUCTION: As electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) gain global popularity, healthcare providers (HCPs) play a critical role in shaping public health responses. In Saudi Arabia, little is known about HCPs' perspectives on e-cigarettes. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate HCPs' knowledge and attitudes toward e-cigarette use and examine differences based on their personal usage patterns. METHODS: This is an observational, cross-sectional study. An online questionnaire was distributed from February to May 2024 among HCPs in Saudi Arabia. The survey, which was previously validated, collected data on sociodemographic, smoking characteristics, and 17 items designed to assess HCPs' knowledge and attitudes about e-cigarette use. RESULTS: A total of 301 HCPs participated in the study. Among the participants, 19.3% were nurses, 18.9% were PharmDs, 13.2% were dentists, 24.3% were respiratory therapists (RTs), and 24.3% were medical doctors (MDs). Approximately 64% of the respondents were male, and the median age was 32 years (IQR: 22-55). E-cigarette users comprised 22.9% of the respondents. The prevalence of e-cigarette use was highest among dentists (20.0%), with lower rates observed among respiratory therapists (11.0%), nurses (8.6%), pharmacists (7.0%), and medical doctors (6.8%). The majority of respondents (68.1%) recognized that e-cigarettes contain nicotine, 64.5% believed that e-cigarettes are addictive, and 48.9% were unsure whether e-cigarettes are FDA-approved products. Additionally, 33.3% of HCPs relied primarily on social media for information about e-cigarettes. HCPs strongly agreed [median score: 5 (IQR: 4-5)] that HCPs should be educated about e-cigarettes. HCPs who used e-cigarettes exhibited significantly more favorable attitudes toward e-cigarettes compared to non-users, based on the total score (p=0.020). CONCLUSIONS: HCPs' knowledge and attitudes regarding e-cigarettes vary widely in Saudi Arabia. Specific, targeted, and regularly updated educational initiatives are needed to ensure that healthcare professionals are confident and well informed regarding the use, risks, and guidelines related to e-cigarettes.