Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Effects of Using E-Cigarettes and Vaporizers

Abstract

Currently, the use of electronic cigarettes and vaporizers is increasing. Research into the effects of these relatively new smoking devices will add to the body of knowledge concerning the impact that e-cigarettes may have on physiological health. In this study, we aimed to evaluate cardiovascular and pulmonary physiological differences between non-smokers and smokers through four measurements: peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (SpO2 ), respiration rate (RR), blood pressure (BP), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1 ) and forced vital capacity (FVC). We hypothesized that e-cigarette smokers would have increased RR and BP while at rest and lower ratios of FEV1 /FVC compared to non-smokers. The 53 participants were divided into four groups: non-smoker (n=28), only marijuana smoker (n=11), combination e-cigarette smoker (n=9) and only e-cigarette smoker (n=5). Results indicate that RR, FEV1 /FVC, and BP were not significantly different when comparing the combination e-cigarette smoker and only e-cigarette smoker groups to the non-smoker control population. Diastolic BP data were found to be significantly increased when comparing the only marijuana smoker group to non-smokers (p=0.011). We note that the mean diastolic BP data were increased in the only e-cigarette smoker group compared to the non-smoker control population, and this results approached significance (p=0.056). Even though our hypotheses are not well supported, the results of near significant differences suggest the need for further experimentation with a greater sample size. With the potential risks that accompany the inhalation of any smoke or chemical, it is necessary to research the impacts on physiological functioning.