E-cigarettes use in the United States: reasons for use, perceptions, and effects on health

Abstract

Background Many researchers claim electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) to be a breakthrough invention for tobacco users that aspires to curb their addiction to conventional cigarettes. Claimed to be safer by their promoters, these smokeless devices have become increasingly popular since their arrival on the market among users of all ages, especially adolescents. This paper investigated the trends in e-cigarette usage since the time it arrived in the United States, highlighting the highest surge that has occurred in adolescent e-cigarette use. It also aimed to understand the reasons and perceptions behind the ever-increasing use of e-cigarettes by adolescents. Main body With the advent of e-cigarettes and common positive perceptions regarding their use, we are at risk of reversing the years of efforts regarding tobacco control and instead advance towards a new addiction with currently unknown long-term health hazards. There is substantial data showing a significant increase of e-cigarette users in the United States, especially among adolescents. The aim of this review was to explore the reasons behind this widespread increase in the use of e-cigarettes among the teenage population in the US and also to uncover the common perceptions about these new electronic delivery systems. In addition, this review attempted to summarize health benefits and hazards associated with e-cigarette use as it crucial to have the right information among its users regarding the health effects of e-cigarette use. Conclusion E-cigarettes are more appealing than c-cigarettes for a variety of reasons, including cost, choice of different flavors, ease of accessibility, and use and impact of social media. There are also different perceptions among e-cigarette users, including both adolescents and adults. The former group may use them because of the sense of fashion associated with this novel device, and the latter might intend to quit conventional/combustible cigarettes (c-cigarettes) by switching to e-cigarettes. However, it is important to note that e-cigarettes are a recent phenomenon; therefore, there is a lack of many long-term studies that can identify future health risks associated with e-cigarette use. We need more detailed studies that focus on the long-term health effects of e-cigarette use. Moreover, with the ever-increasing usage of e-cigarettes by adolescents (10 and 19 years), it is very important that e-cigarettes be incorporated into the current tobacco-free laws and ordinances. We conclude by stating that e-cigarettes need stronger regulations to prevent youth access and use.

Oral health practices and self-reported adverse effects of E-cigarette use among dental students in 11 countries: an online survey

“…In addition, E-cigarette use can lead to hyposalivation resulting in tissue drying that promotes caries, periodontal disease, and other oral health problems [ 9 , 11 , 12 , 19 ]. The vegetable glycerin with other flavoring agents can increase microbial adhesion to enamel and promote biofilm formation, which results in a decreased enamel hardness [ 18 ]. Cinnamaldehyde can suppress the phagocytic function of neutrophils and macrophages; and inhibit the natural killer cells’ cell–killing ability of tumor cells, and ciliary beating of airway epithelial cells [ 20 , 21 ].…”

“…Nicotine, a wellknown vasoconstrictor, decreases gingival blood flow, and depresses cytokine production (IL-1β, IL-2, TNF-α, and IFN-γ), neutrophil number, and immune cell function, leading ultimately to periodontal disease and tooth loss [15][16][17]. The propylene glycol content of the E-cigarette breaks down into acetic and lactic acids, and other harmful compounds to the enamel and oral soft tissue [18]. In addition, E-cigarette use can lead to hyposalivation resulting in tissue drying that promotes caries, periodontal disease, and other oral health problems [9,11,12,19].…”

Association between electronic nicotine delivery systems and electronic non-nicotine delivery systems with initiation of tobacco use in individuals aged < 20 years. A systematic review and meta-analysis

“…Of concern is an increasing body of evidence suggesting ENDS/ENNDS use may accrue a range of health risks for different age groups. [ 8 , 9 ] Constituents of e-liquids, such as propylene glycol and glycerine form toxic aldehydes when heated, of which the long-term effects of exposure remains unknown. [ 10 ] ENDS/ENNDS use can also impact on the respiratory system and is associated with adverse effects on the developing brain.…”

Comparative Effects of E-Cigarette Aerosol on Periodontium of Periodontitis Patients

“…The performance of e-cigarettes varies among different brands [ 8 ], and the manufacture and components of E-cigarette product are regulated by FDA. It has been proposed that e-cigarettes serve as a strategy of smoking cessation or a less harmful replacement for conventional cigarette [ 9 , 10 ]. However, the data is inconclusive [ 11 ].…”