Cardiorespiratory and Immunologic Effects of Electronic Cigarettes.

Introduction:
This article reviews the current evidence on the cardiovascular, pulmonary, and immunological effects of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). The study provides insights into the health risks associated with e-cigarette use, particularly among youth and young adults. The review also discusses the potential mechanisms by which e-cigarettes may cause harm, including the generation of toxic chemicals, metals, and particles. The article also highlights the differences and similarities in the toxicity profile of e-cigarettes and combustible cigarettes.

Key Points:

* E-cigarette use is associated with significant adverse cardiorespiratory and immunological changes in humans.
* E-cigarettes generate lower levels of toxins than combustible cigarettes, but their use may not result in proportional harm reduction.
* E-cigarettes contain nicotine, which can increase the risk of carcinogenesis by inducing DNa damage and inhibiting DNa repair.
* E-cigarette aerosols can induce structural changes in the lung and significantly compromise lung function.
* E-cigarette use has been associated with an increased risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, and other respiratory diseases.
* E-cigarettes can generate stable toxins in the plasma that can induce systemic toxicity, affecting the cardiovascular system.
* E-cigarettes can suppress the anti-microbial function of both macrophages and neutrophils, increasing the risk of respiratory infections and modifying allergic responses.
* E-cigarette use has been linked to an increased risk of COVID-19 diagnosis, especially among young adults.

Main Message:
The review highlights the potential health risks associated with e-cigarette use, particularly among youth and young adults. While e-cigarettes may generate lower levels of toxins than combustible cigarettes, their use may not result in proportional harm reduction. The review also underscores the need for further research to fully understand the long-term health effects of e-cigarette use. The findings suggest that e-cigarettes are not a safe alternative to combustible cigarettes and that regulations are necessary to reduce the availability and appeal of e-cigarettes to young people.

Keith R, Bhatnagar a. Cardiorespiratory and Immunologic Effects of Electronic Cigarettes. Current addiction reports. 2021;8(2):336-346. doi:10.1007/s40429-021-00359-7