The Characteristics of Electronic Cigarette Users in Indonesia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Data shows that in the last ten years, there has been an increase in e-cigarette users, especially vaping in Indonesia. However, data on the relationship between vape e-cigarette users and sociodemographic background and vape use habits are lacking. However, it is needed as a consideration for vape regulation in Indonesia. This study aims to determine the characteristics of vape e-cigarette users in Indonesia based on sociodemographic background and vape use habits.

This research is a cross sectional study using a questionnaire that is filled in by the respondents themselves. The survey was conducted online on vape users aged 17 years and older. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests.

Data was obtained from 297 respondents. Most respondents were male with an average age of 19-44 years, working, married, living with family, and domiciled in major cities on the island of Java. The average vape user has a high school educational background, an income of more than 5 million per month, with more indoor jobs. They have generally been using vape for more than 3 years, using nicotine levels of 6 mg, with a volume of e-liquid of 60 ml, which runs out in 2 weeks, and a small percentage also still use conventional cigarettes. Dry mouth was the most complained condition.

This study provides valuable sociodemographic insights and usage patterns of vape e-cigarette users in Indonesia, highlighting the need for further research and informed considerations in regulatory decisions regarding vape products in the country.