Cardiovascular risk of electronic cigarettes: a review of preclinical and clinical studies

Abstract

Cigarette smoking is the most preventable risk factor related to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Tobacco usage has declined in recent years; however, the use of alternative nicotine delivery methods, particularly e-cigarettes, has increased exponentially despite limited data on their short- and long-term safety and efficacy. Due to their unique properties, the impact of e-cigarettes on cardiovascular physiology is not fully known. Here, we summarize both preclinical and clinical data extracted from short- and long-term studies on the cardiovascular effects of e-cigarette use. Current findings support that e-cigarettes are not a harm-free alternative to tobacco smoke. However, the data are primarily derived from acute studies. The impact of chronic e-cigarette exposure is essentially unstudied. To explore the uniqueness of e-cigarettes, we contemplate the cardiovascular effects of individual e-cigarette constituents. Overall, data suggest that exposure to e-cigarettes could be a potential cardiovascular health concern. Further preclinical research and randomized trials are needed to expand basic and clinical investigations before considering e-cigarettes safe alternatives to conventional cigarettes.

Keywords: Aerosol; Cardiovascular disease; Electronic cigarette; Nicotine; Smoking; Toxicity.

Figure 1

Potential adverse cardiovascular effects induced by various constituents of e-cigarette aerosol.

Figure 2

Mechanisms of e-cigarette induced cardiovascular dysfunction.