Policies and Prevention Strategies Targeting Adolescent Electronic Cigarette Use in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Scoping Review.

Abstract Objective: The objective of this scoping review is to map the extent and scope of policies and prevention strategies developed to prevent and reduce electronic cigarette use among adolescents in Sub-Saharan Africa. Introduction: Electronic cigarettes, initially marketed as a combustible tobacco smoking cessation tool, have grown in global popularity in the last decade especially among adolescents and young adults. Although its use among adolescents has increased exponentially in Sub-Saharan Africa, there is a paucity of literature on regional policies and prevention strategies. This creates the need to understand and map out current policies and prevention strategies. Inclusion criteria: This review will include data that describes policies and prevention strategies, regarding electronic cigarette use among adolescents (10-19 year olds) in sub-Saharan African countries. Data from countries outside this region or which focuses on adults will be excluded. Methods: Databases such as PubMed, SCOPUS, CINAHL, Embase, and government websites will be searched. Retrieved literature will be screened based on the eligibility criteria, and data written in English between 2005 and 2025 will be considered. Data will be screened and extracted using the JBI SUMARI framework. Relevant data will be charted, collated, and summarized. Keywords: E-cigarettes; public policy; adolescents; Sub-Saharan Africa; vape.