2286 - USE OF ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES AND MENTAL HEALTH COMORBIDITIES IN YOUNG ADULTS

Session: P_D06S008 - Poster Session 8 - Division 6
AUTHORS:
Amado María (Universidad Santa María La Antigua ~ Panamá ~ Panama) , Batista Isabella (Universidad Santa María La Antigua ~ Panamá ~ Panama) , Oviedo Diana (INDICASAT - AIP / USMA ~ Panamá ~ Panama)
Abstract text:
The use of electronic cigarettes (EC) has increased substantially in recent years, particularly among young adults, raising concerns about its potential impact on mental health. Although often perceived as a safer alternative to traditional smoking, growing evidence links EC use to symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, and suicidal ideation. In Latin America, especially in Panama, there is limited empirical research addressing this topic. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between EC consumption and mental health comorbidities among young adults in Panama City. A quantitative, descriptive-correlational, and non-experimental design was conducted with 74 participants aged 20-30 years. Participants completed sociodemographic questionnaires and validated psychological scales that included the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-14), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS). Statistical analyses were performed using JAMOVI (v.2.3), applying descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, and Student's t-tests (p < .05). Results indicated that 59.5% of participants were active EC users, with men showing a higher use of EC (p = 0.025). Strong correlations emerged between depression and anxiety (p < .001), anxiety and stress (p = 0.023), and stress and suicidal tendencies (p = 0.013). Women presented significantly higher scores in depression (p = 0.004), anxiety (p < .001), and stress (p = 0.002) compared to men. Furthermore, a comparison between EC users and non-users, evidenced significant differences in perceived stress levels (p = 0.040), showing higher stress among users. Overall, the findings suggest that EC consumption is associated with elevated stress and interconnected emotional symptoms, highlighting the need for public health policies and preventive mental health interventions focused on young adults as a vulnerable population.