Summary
Introduction:
This text provides an overview of a study examining the relationship between electronic cigarette (EC) use and adverse effects on the gastrointestinal (GI) system. The study analyzed data from the National health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NhaNES) from 2015-16 to determine any correlation between EC use and symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. The study also considered factors such as age, gender, and income in the analysis.
Key Points:
* The study included 944 participants, with 261 using ECs and 683 never using ECs in the past 30 days.
* among EC users, 10.73% reported a stomach or intestinal illness manifesting as vomiting or diarrhea in the past 30 days, compared to 8.64% of non-EC users.
* however, the results did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.3208).
* Males constituted a higher percentage of EC users (62.84%) compared to non-EC users (54.76%).
* The study found no significant difference in age between EC users and non-EC users.
* The study highlights conflicting views regarding the effects of ECs on the GI tract and the need for further research.
* Limitations of the study include a smaller sample size, shorter duration, comorbidities, and undefined nicotine content in ECs.
Main Message:
The study suggests a potential association between EC use and adverse GI effects, although the results did not reach statistical significance. The study underscores the need for careful consideration and diligence in evaluating the health effects of ECs as a safe alternative to traditional cigarettes or as a means of smoking cessation. Further research is necessary to establish a causal relationship and enunciate the mechanism by which EC components affect the GI tract.
Citation
Debnath M, Debnath D, Singh P, Wert Y, Nookala V. Effect of Electronic Cigarettes on the Gastrointestinal System. Cureus. 2022;14(7):1. doi:10.7759/cureus.27210
