e-Cigarettes and Oral Cancer: what do we know so far?

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Public Health
• Oncology

Background:

• Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use, commonly known as vaping, has gained widespread popularity.
• There is a growing concern regarding the potential adverse effects of vaping on oral health.
• The link between vaping and oral cancer risk requires thorough investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize current scientific evidence on the detrimental impacts of vaping on oral health.
• To evaluate the association between e-cigarette use and the risk of developing oral cancer.
• To equip Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS) practitioners with up-to-date information for patient education.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of recent scientific literature.
• Analysis of studies investigating vaping's effects on oral tissues.
• Examination of epidemiological data on oral cancer rates among vapers.

Main Results:

• Evidence indicates that e-cigarette use is not harmless and carries oral health risks.
• Vaping is associated with various deleterious effects on the oral cavity.
• Emerging data suggests a potential increased risk of oral cancer linked to vaping.

Conclusions:

• Vaping poses significant threats to oral health.
• The risk of oral cancer may be elevated in individuals who vape.
• OMFS practitioners should be informed to advise patients about the oral health risks of vaping.