Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 9, 2026
10:44
Comparing the Effects of Electronic Cigarette Vapor and Cigarette Smoke in a Novel In Vivo Exposure System
Published on: May 24, 2017
Association between current e-cigarette use and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a meta-analysis focusing on
Yanqiu Jiang1, Yao Wang1, Mengya Yang1
1Clinical Research Center, The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou, China.
Frontiers in Public Health
|May 8, 2026
Summary
Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use is linked to increased odds of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This association persists even in exclusive e-cigarette users, suggesting a potential independent risk.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are marketed as safer alternatives to traditional cigarettes, but their long-term health impacts, particularly concerning chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are not fully understood.
- The independent association between e-cigarette use and COPD prevalence is unclear due to potential confounding factors like traditional cigarette smoking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the association between current e-cigarette use and the prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- To conduct a subgroup analysis on exclusive e-cigarette users to explore the independent association with COPD.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was performed across multiple databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang) up to November 12, 2025.
- Eligible observational studies assessing the e-cigarette use and COPD prevalence link were included.
- Pooled estimates were calculated using a random-effects model for meta-analysis.
Main Results:
- Fifteen studies were included. Current e-cigarette use showed a significantly higher odds of COPD (OR=2.03, 95% CI: 1.61-2.56).
- Former e-cigarette users also had increased COPD association (OR=1.82, 95% CI: 1.38-2.41).
- Subgroup analyses revealed higher COPD prevalence in exclusive e-cigarette users (OR=2.09), dual users (OR=3.13), and current users with smoking history (OR=2.17).
Conclusions:
- Current e-cigarette use is associated with a higher prevalence of COPD.
- This association is also observed in exclusive e-cigarette users, suggesting a potential independent risk factor for COPD.
- Findings highlight the need for further research into the respiratory health effects of e-cigarette use.
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