Vapotage: what are the risks of wheezing?

Are electronic cigarettes suitable for quitting smoking?

A recent American study sought to assess whether e-cigarettes, like tobacco cigarettes, could induce a risk of wheezing in vapers. Indeed, the prevalence of e-cigarette use has increased in recent years, and some are concerned about its effect on respiratory health.

The nationally representative PATH (Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health) study was used. Longitudinal data from adults aged 18 or older from wave 1 (2013-2014) to wave 5 (2018-2019) were analyzed. The prevalence of self-reported wheezing (waves 2-5) was estimated for several strata of tobacco product use: exclusive vaper, dual-use vaper-smoker, former vaper, former smoker… The results are based on self-reporting by study participants. It is clear that exclusive use of e-cigarettes was not associated with an increased risk of self-reported wheezing. However, a slight increase in the risk of wheezing was reported by cigarette users.

This study adds to the literature on the potential health effects of e-cigarette use and confirms that dual use tobacco cigarette – electronic cigarette is not recommended.

LuzM. Sánchez-Romero. Assessment of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems With Cigarette Use and Self-reported Wheezing in the US Adult Population.JAMA Network Open. 2023;6(4):e236247. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.6247