Evaluation of an educational intervention on the impacts of electronic cigarette use on adolescents' oral health

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate students' knowledge of the risks of electronic cigarettes to oral health before and after an educational intervention based on an informational booklet and playful educational activities. Methods: A quantitative, descriptive study with a pre- and post-intervention design was conducted with 62 students from a school in the city of Belém, Pará, Brazil. Questionnaires developed by the authors, based on the scientific literature and the study objectives, were administered to the same participants before and immediately after the educational intervention to assess students' knowledge and perceptions regarding electronic cigarettes. Results: Although most students had already heard about electronic cigarettes, they demonstrated limited knowledge regarding their composition and effects. After the intervention, a descriptive improvement was observed in risk perception, recognition of the harmful effects on oral health and the strengthening of preventive attitudes such as refusing to use electronic cigarettes. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that educational strategies based on engaging and accessible learning materials have the potential to enhance adolescents' knowledge and promote changes in their perceptions of the risks associated with electronic cigarette use, reinforcing the importance of school-based health education as a strategy for preventing the use of these devices.