Summary
Introduction:
This text summarizes a debate between two groups of researchers regarding the impact of nicotine-free electronic cigarette (ECa) vaping on aortic stiffness, as measured by pulse wave velocity (PWV). The discussion highlights the importance of considering heart rate as a potential confounding factor in PWV measurements.
Key Points:
1. The original study by Caporale et al. (2019) found that nicotine-free ECa vaping impaired endothelial function and marginally increased aortic PWV in nonsmokers.
2. Papaioannou et al. argue that heart rate and mean arterial pressure should be considered as covariates in PWV measurements, as they can influence the results.
3. Caporale et al. respond by stating that heart rate and blood pressure were not significantly altered 45-50 minutes after nicotine-free ECa inhalation during their PWV assessment.
4. Papaioannou et al.'s reference to the Corinthia study suggests that the association between heart rate and PWV is significant only in populations with elevated PWV.
5. Caporale et al.'s study involved healthy young adults with normal blood pressure and body mass index, and no significant acute increase in heart rate after nicotine-free ECa inhalation was observed.
6. Both groups agree on the importance of considering potential confounders in vascular research, but they disagree on the relevance of heart rate in this specific study population.
7. Caporale et al.'s study was supported by grants from the National Institutes of health, and no relevant conflicts of interest were disclosed.
Main Message:
The debate emphasizes the importance of considering potential confounding factors, such as heart rate and mean arterial pressure, in vascular research, particularly when assessing aortic stiffness with PWV measurements. While both groups agree on the significance of these confounders, they disagree on their relevance in this specific study population. The discussion underscores the need for thorough consideration and reporting of confounders to ensure accurate and reliable research findings.
Citation
Papaioannou TG, aggeli C, Tousoulis D. Does Nicotine-free Electronic Cigarette Vaping affect aortic Stiffness Independently of heart Rate? Radiology. 2019;293(3):725-726. doi:10.1148/radiol.2019191966
