Early Cardiovascular Risk in E-Cigarette Users: the Potential Role of Metals.

Introduction:
This text provides an in-depth analysis of the potential cardiovascular risks associated with e-cigarette use, with a focus on the role of metals in e-cigarette aerosols. The study highlights the experimental evidence for short-term cardiotoxicity of metals found in e-cigarettes and the epidemiologic research on e-cigarettes and cardiovascular outcomes. The text also discusses the evidence for e-cigarettes as a source of toxic metals and the known cardiotoxic effects of these metals at low-chronic exposure levels.

Key Points:

1. E-cigarettes are a source of cardiotoxic metals, including lead, nickel, chromium, and manganese.
2. Several studies have found that e-cigarette aerosols contain higher levels of metals than tobacco smoke.
3. Metals in e-cigarette aerosols can be toxic when inhaled, even at low levels.
4. Metals are increasingly recognized as important risk factors for coronary heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
5. Epidemiologic research has found cross-sectional associations between e-cigarette use and self-reported myocardial infarction and circulatory problems.
6. Experimental studies have shown that e-cigarette aerosols can induce acute adverse effects on endothelial cell health.
7. Longitudinal studies are needed to establish the long-term cardiovascular effects of e-cigarettes and the potential role of metals in e-cigarette related cardiovascular disease.

Main Message:
The text highlights the concerning levels of toxic metals found in e-cigarette aerosols and the potential cardiovascular risks associated with e-cigarette use. While more research is needed, the evidence suggests that e-cigarettes may not be a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, as previously believed. Regulatory measures may be necessary to protect public health and reduce the potential cardiovascular risks associated with e-cigarette use.

Navas-acien a, Martinez-Morata I, hilpert M, Rule a, Shimbo D, LoIacono NJ. Early Cardiovascular Risk in E-cigarette Users: the Potential Role of Metals. Current environmental health reports. 2020;7(4):353-361. doi:10.1007/s40572-020-00297-y