The impact of E-cigarette vaping and vapour constituents on bone health.

Introduction:
This literature review examines the impact of electronic cigarette (E-cigarette) usage on bone health, a topic that has received limited investigation. It highlights studies that have investigated the impact of E-cigarette vapour and its major constituents on bone, detailing the models utilized and the mechanistic and functional results. The review emphasizes the lack of studies using E-cigarette vapour and the preponderance of studies using bone cell lines, with limited use of human osteoblasts or osteoclasts. additionally, there is limited consideration for a possible impact on mesenchymal stem cells, which can also play an important role in bone repair.

Key Points:

* E-cigarette usage has grown substantially over the last decade, partly due to being regarded as a safer alternative to smoking.
* E-cigarette vapour contains high doses of nicotine and other compounds, including flavouring chemicals, metal particulates, and carbonyl compounds.
* Exposure to nicotine in E-cigarette vapour can reduce the viability and impair the function of both osteoblasts and osteoclasts.
* Flavouring chemicals and aldehydes may also negatively impact osteoblast viability and their ability to form bone.
* There is limited investigation into the impact of E-cigarette usage on bone physiology, particularly over extended time periods.
* Understanding the function and mechanism of action of the various components of E-cigarette vapour in mediating human bone cell function is important.
* Long-term studies are necessary to determine the potential harm of chronic E-cigarette use on human bone.

Main Message:
This literature review underscores the need for further research into the impact of E-cigarette usage on bone health. as the use of E-cigarettes continues to rise, it is crucial to understand the potential risks associated with their use, particularly regarding bone healing following orthopaedic surgery and injury. By identifying the specific components of E-cigarette vapour that impact bone health, healthcare providers can better inform patients of the potential risks associated with E-cigarette usage.

Nicholson T, Scott a, Newton Ede M, Jones SW. The impact of E-cigarette vaping and vapour constituents on bone health. Journal of inflammation (London, England). 2021;18(1):16. doi:10.1186/s12950-021-00283-7