TDNet Discover

Background: The health impact of tobacco cigarette (TC) smoking has long been studied, with substantial evidence linking TC smoking as the cause or contributing factor of numerous diseases, including cardiovascular disease. Limited evidence is present on the cardiovascular effects of electronic cigarettes (EC), a relatively new smoking product often marketed as a healthier alternative to TC smoking. Purpose: The purpose of this research was to review evidence-based information regarding the cardiovascular risks related to EC and assist in determining whether those risks outweigh the benefits of EC use as treatment for TC smoking cessation. Methods: The authors conducted a literature search of the Journal of the American Heart Association and PubMed, Cochrane, and Google Scholar databases from October 2021 to February 2022. Published studies assessing electronic cigarettes and their cardiovascular effects were reviewed and three final studies were selected based on the quality of the study and the suitability of each study to address the research question. The selected studies were reviewed by an independent research panel for approval. Data extraction was utilized to complete a qualitative analysis of the selected studies. Changes in arterial stiffness, myocardial function, endothelial function, CV event risk, heart rate, and blood pressure were variables used to evaluate the cardiovascular effects of EC use. Results: EC use resulted in elevated blood pressure, elevated heart rate, increased arterial stiffness, decreased endothelial function, and an increased risk of myocardial infarction—in comparison to non-smokers. However, EC users demonstrated a lower degree of these cardiovascular effects in comparison to TC smokers. Regarding vascular stiffness, participants vi with more than 20 pack years that switched from TC to EC did not exhibit improved vascular stiffness. Conclusion: Evidence suggests that switching from TC use to EC use may result in fewer longterm cardiovascular risks. Although this research found EC use to be a short-term cessation option when all other options have failed for TC users, further research is necessary before EC may be approved as a method of smoking cessation