Tunisian Teens and Heated Tobacco: What the Numbers Show

A survey of 980 middle and high school students in Sfax, Tunisia, found that only 2 % – about 20 kids – reported using heated tobacco products in the past month.

Most of the teens who had ever tried the product got their first device from a friend, about 44 % of the group. The rest got refills from specialty shops, which accounted for roughly 65 % of the users.

When asked why they started, curiosity was the top answer, chosen by two‑thirds of the sample. Peer pressure also played a role for a smaller slice. The most common side effect they mentioned was feeling sleepy, reported by nearly 40 % of ever‑users.

Statistical analysis showed that teens who currently use shisha, have a brother who uses heated tobacco, or smoke regular cigarettes are far more likely to try the product. These links point to a clear need for focused prevention and tighter rules on selling these items to young people.