Table 2 Summary of key findings based on physician opinions in analyzed YouTube videos

1. The Health Effects of Electronic Cigarettes

1.1. Physical Health Effects

Harmful to the respiratory system (16), concerns about cancer (9), cardiovascular problems (6), harm to oral and dental health (3), negative effect on the nervous system/brain development (3), uncertainty about long-term effects (3), negative effect on fertility/reproduction (2),

1.2. Psychological Effects

Continues/perpetuates nicotine addiction (10), particularly strong/addictive potential among young people (5), nicotine’s effect on dopamine fosters dependency (3), flavored e‑cigarettes intensify addiction (2), switching to e‑cigarettes does not solve addiction (2)

2. Comparison of E-cigarettes and Traditional Cigarettes

2.1. Comparison of Health Risks

As harmful or similarly harmful as normal cigarettes (8), less harmful but still harmful (6), uncertainty about long‑term effects (4), no conclusive data proving lower harm (2), dual use increases overall health risks (2), as much or more nicotine than a regular cigarette (2)

2.2. Potential for Addiction

Continues or perpetuates nicotine addiction (6), potentially beneficial for quitting smoking (3), not recommended for cessation by some physicians (3), risk of youth initiation/addiction (2)

3. Social Dynamics of Electronic Cigarette Use

3.1. Impact of Social Media and Marketing

Targeting youth (6), use of sweeteners/flavors to attract young consumers (5), presenting e‑cigarettes as harmless/beneficial (3), celebrity/movie endorsements (1), rebranding as “vaping” to avoid negative connotations (1)

3.2. User Experiences and Perceptions

Continues/perpetuates addiction (4), perceived or marketed as less harmful (2), questioned as an effective cessation strategy (2), concerns over Big Tobacco involvement (1), parental worry due to odorless use (1), underage initiation/usage (1).

4. Medical and Public Opinions on E-cigarettes

4.1. Misconceptions Among the Public

Continued nicotine addiction—­not a genuine cessation solution (3), tobacco industry involvement raises skepticism about motives (2), misconception of harmless “water vapor” persists among the public (2)

4.2. Lack of Awareness and the Need for Education

Described as a “trap” or misleading solution (3), need for stricter regulation/awareness campaigns (2), concerns about unregulated liquids (1), potential secondhand exposure (1)