Medical Students’ Views on Vaping: Gaps in Knowledge, Attitudes, and Curriculum Preparedness

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As one of the authors of this study, I am deeply concerned by the clear disconnect between the growing health risks associated with vaping and the limited education medical students are receiving on this topic. Our findings show that while nearly all students recognize that vaping poses health risks, the majority report receiving little to no formal instruction about it in their curriculum. This matters—because these students will soon be the frontline physicians responsible for guiding patients, many of whom are already using e-cigarettes or considering them as "safer" alternatives to smoking. Without the proper knowledge or confidence to address vaping-related health issues, future doctors may miss crucial opportunities to counsel patients effectively or dispel harmful myths. I believe it's our responsibility as medical educators and researchers to ensure students are fully equipped to meet today’s public health challenges. Vaping is not a passing trend—it’s a complex issue with long-term health implications. This study is a call to action to strengthen medical curricula so future doctors are prepared to make a difference where it matters most: in patient care.

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