Ascorbic Acid Prevents Vascular Endothelial Dysfunction Induced by Electronic Hookah (Waterpipe) Vaping

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Research
• Pulmonology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Electronic hookah (e-hookah) use is rising among youth, despite misconceptions about aerosol safety.
• E-hookahs deliver nicotine via fine and ultrafine particles, potentially impairing endothelial function and nitric oxide bioavailability.
• Oxidative stress from e-hookah vaping may contribute to vascular dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the acute effects of e-hookah vaping on endothelial function.
• To determine the role of oxidative stress in e-hookah-induced vascular impairment.
• To assess the impact of ascorbic acid (an antioxidant) on e-hookah vaping effects.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-six healthy young adult habitual hookah smokers participated in a 30-minute e-hookah vaping session.
• Endothelial function was measured using brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD).
• Plasma total antioxidant capacity, nicotine, and exhaled carbon monoxide were measured. Ascorbic acid infusion was administered to assess its protective effects (n=11). Sham-vaping controls were conducted (n=10).

Main Results:

• E-hookah vaping significantly increased plasma nicotine and mean arterial pressure.
• Acutely decreased FMD following e-hookah vaping (5.79% to 4.39%).
• Ascorbic acid administration increased baseline FMD and prevented the FMD reduction caused by e-hookah vaping.

Conclusions:

• E-hookah vaping acutely impairs vascular endothelial function.
• Oxidative stress is a likely mechanism underlying e-hookah-induced vascular impairment.
• Findings suggest that e-hookah use may accelerate cardiovascular disease development over time.