Impact of Electronic Cigarette use on Cardiovascular Health: Current Evidence, Causal Pathways, and Public Health Implications

Abstract

Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use is increasing in Europe and the USA. While mounting evidence exists regarding an array of associated adverse health effects, to date limited evidence exists regarding the health effects of e-cigarette use on cardiovascular (CV) disease (CVD). The present review summarizes the effects of e-cigarette use on CV health. A search strategy of in vivo experimental, observational studies (including population-based cohort studies), and interventional studies was conducted in PubMed, MEDLINE, and Web of Science (April 1, 2009–April 1, 2022). The main findings revealed that the influence of e-cigarette on health are attributed mainly to the individual and interactive effects of flavors and additives used in e-cigarette fluids, along with the extended heating. The above collectively stimulate prolonged sympathoexcitatory CV autonomic effects, such as increased heart rate and diastolic blood pressure (BP), as well as decreased oxygen saturation. Hence, e-cigarette users are at increased risk of developing atherosclerosis, hypertension, arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, and heart failure. Such risks are anticipated to increase, especially among the young who are increasingly adopting e-cigarette use particularly with flavored additives. Further investigations are urgently needed to evaluate the long-term effects of e-cigarette use, particularly among susceptible population groups such as youth.