American Heart Association finds that vaping negatively impacts heart and lung health

The utilization of e-cigarettes has been found to have detrimental effects on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, prompting the American Heart Association (AHA) to call for further investigation into this matter.

In a newly released scientific statement, Jason Rose, volunteer chair of the AHA scientific statement writing committee, expressed concerns over the potential harm caused by the various chemicals and compounds delivered by e-cigarettes, many of which are not well-known or understood by users.

Rose added, “Research indicates that e-cigarettes containing nicotine can lead to acute changes in blood pressure and heart rate.”

The scientific statement highlighted a research study that revealed a significant link between e-cigarette use and the development of respiratory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and asthma, over a two-year period. It also emphasized that the ingredients in e-cigarettes, even without nicotine, can pose health risks.

Rose further stated, “Studies have shown that flavoring agents in e-cigarettes, even in the absence of nicotine, independently carry risks associated with heart and lung diseases in animals. In vitro studies and research on individuals exposed to chemicals in commercially available e-cigarette products have also demonstrated negative effects.”

The statement highlighted vitamin E acetate as the likely cause of E-cigarette, or Vaping, product use Associated Lung Injury (EVALI) hospitalizations. Additionally, more research is needed to understand the potential impact on heart attacks and strokes.

The AHA statement also emphasized that e-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco product among high school and middle-aged students. Rose expressed equal concern, stating that there is a correlation between e-cigarette use and substance use disorders.

Due to the limited duration of e-cigarette use in the U.S. (approximately 15 years), long-term health effects are not yet well-understood. Thus, researchers must rely on short-term studies, molecular experiments, and animal research to assess the true risks of using e-cigarettes.

Rose concluded, “Expanding research in this area is crucial, given the exponential growth of e-cigarette usage, particularly among young individuals who may have never used traditional cigarettes.”