Beyond the puff: health consequences of vaping

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Toxicology
• Biomedical Science

Background:

• Electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) emerged in 2007, gaining popularity as a harm reduction alternative to traditional cigarettes.
• Concerns regarding the safety and long-term health effects of ENDS are increasing due to their chemical constituents and emissions.
• Limited long-term epidemiological research necessitates understanding acute effects to predict chronic health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current literature on the health consequences of ENDS use.
• To examine the impacts of ENDS on the oral cavity, respiratory system, and cardiovascular system.
• To provide insights into potential long-term health implications of ENDS usage.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on ENDS health effects.
• Analysis of research focusing on cellular impacts and acute effects.
• Synthesis of findings related to oral, respiratory, and cardiovascular system impacts.

Main Results:

• ENDS use is linked to adverse effects including gingival inflammation and oral microbiome alterations, potentially leading to periodontal disease.
• ENDS emissions contain heavy metals and other constituents that induce oxidative stress and inflammation in the lungs, impairing lung function.
• ENDs emissions negatively affect cardiovascular health, causing increased blood pressure, impaired vascular function, and elevated heart rate.

Conclusions:

• Current research indicates deleterious effects of ENDS on oral, respiratory, and cardiovascular health.
• The findings underscore the need for further investigation into the chronic health implications of ENDS use.
• Understanding acute effects is crucial for informing potential long-term health risks associated with ENDS.