Impact of E-cigarette versus combustible cigarette use on lung function: A cross-sectional study

INTRODUCTION: Currently, e-cigarettes are often perceived as less harmful than combustible cigarettes, which has contributed to a significant increase in the number of e-cigarette users. Therefore, it is necessary to study the detrimental effects and health consequences associated with e-cigarettes and to ascertain whether e-cigarettes are less dangerous than combustible cigarettes. The present study aims to investigate the impact of e-cigarettes and combustible cigarettes on spirometry, DLCO, and respiratory muscle strength. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 123 participants who were divided into three groups: The e-cigarette group, the combustible cigarette group, and the control group. They underwent spirometry, DLCO, and respiratory muscle strength testing. RESULTS: E-cigarette users demonstrated significantly lower FEV1/FVC ratio, FEF25-75%, and MEP compared with controls (p < 0.05). They also showed significantly lower PEF, MIP, and MEP relative to combustible cigarette smokers (p < 0.05). Although DLCO parameters did not differ significantly among groups, e-cigarette users consistently exhibited the lowest mean DLCO values. Additionally, most spirometry, DLCO, and respiratory muscle strength parameters in the e-cigarette group were lower than the normal reference values. CONCLUSIONS: E-cigarette use was associated with reduced pulmonary function, including lower FEV1/FVC ratio, FEF25-75%, PEF, MIP, and MEP. Most pulmonary function parameters in the e-cigarette group showed the lowest mean values and were below normative reference ranges. These findings suggest potential detrimental effects of e-cigarette use on respiratory health more than combustible cigarettes, emphasizing the need for raised awareness about e-cigarettes.