Electronic Cigarette Smoking Behavior among Business  Administration Students in Private Universities, Bangkok

Thanyawan Kerddonsai; Wasin Pipatanachart; Chalita Chayuttakorn; Sarunya Jaengkham

Authors

Thanyawan Kerddonsai Faculty of Public Health, Bangkok Thonburi University
Wasin Pipatanachart Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University
Chalita Chayuttakorn Faculty of Business Administration, Thonburi University
Sarunya Jaengkham Faculty of Business Administration, Thonburi University

Keywords:

smoking behavior, e-cigarette, business administration students

Abstract

Introduction: E-cigarette smoking impacts physical and mental health, society and the economy. It is harmful to both smokers and those exposed to secondhand smoke.

Research objectives: To study e-cigarette smoking behavior, associated factors, guidelines for developing prevention and control policies, as well as opinions on policy improvement.

Research methodology: A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative and qualitative was used. The quantitative sample consisted of 340 business administration students in private universities in Bangkok. Data were analyzed using percentage, mean, standard deviation and Chi-Square statistics. The qualitative sample included 10 school administrators. In-depth interviews and content analysis were employed.

Results: The majority of students were female (73.20%), and 52.10% were aged 18-21 years. Close individuals who smoked e-cigarettes included fathers (18.50%), siblings (18.80%), and close friends (32.10%). Most students started smoking at the age of 18 and smoked 1-2 times per day (29.70%). E-cigarettes were easily accessible (23.20%). Reasons for smoking incuded the desire to try (8.50%), preference for various flavors and tastes (20.60%), positive attitudes (34.70%), the belief that e-cigarettes are less harmful than traditional cigarettes, and viewing them as a fashion trend. Factors associated with smoking included fathers' and siblings' smoking habits, attitudes, and exposure to advertisements. Regarding administrators, universities had integrated control measures aligned with regulations, education campaigns, and effort to create a non-smoking environment.

Conclusion: E-cigarettes are popular among students due to easy access, curiosity, positive attitudes, and media influence. Although universities have control policies, they remain insufficient.

Implications: Knowledge should be reinforced. Advertising media should be controlled. Policies should be improved. E-cigarette-free areas should be strictly established. Laws and policies in educational institutions should be enforced---especially those controlling students' access to e-cigarettes.

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