Summary
Introduction:
This text provides an analysis of the health effects of e-cigarettes on the pulmonary system, with a focus on the usage patterns and demographics of users worldwide. The authors also discuss the regulatory environment and its impact on e-cigarette use.
Key Points:
* E-cigarette use is continuing to rise in young adults in the US and Canada, but not in the UK, suggesting that regulation is influencing uptake.
* E-cigarettes are not harmless and can have negative effects on the pulmonary system, even in short-term use.
* The long-term health effects of e-cigarette use are still not fully understood, and further studies are needed to determine the risks for all populations.
* A recent surge in cases of lung injury associated with vaping in America has resulted in the definition of vaping associated pulmonary injury (VAPI), although the exact cause remains unknown.
* The majority of patients with VAPI reported use of tetrahydrocannabinol or cannabidiol, but the underlying cause of VAPI is still uncertain.
* E-cigarette use is associated with higher occurrence of chest pain, palpitations, coronary heart disease, and arrhythmia.
* Exposure to e-cigarette liquid causes endothelial cell dysfunction, a precursor to myocardial infarction and other cardiovascular diseases.
* E-cigarette flavors and their impact on immunological response and cytotoxicity is an area of concern, and current regulation does not require manufacturers to test the safety of flavor molecules.
Main Message:
The text emphasizes that e-cigarettes are not harmless, and their use can have negative effects on the pulmonary system and cardiovascular health. The long-term health effects of e-cigarette use are still not fully understood, and further studies are needed to determine the risks for all populations. The regulatory environment and the impact of e-cigarette flavors on health are also discussed, highlighting the need for better regulation and safety measures.
Citation
Bozier J, Zakarya R, Chapman DG, Oliver BGG. How harmless are E-cigarettes? Effects in the pulmonary system. Current opinion in pulmonary medicine. 2020;26(1):97-102. doi:10.1097/MCP.0000000000000645
