Lung Injury Associated With the Use of Electronic Cigarettes: Literature Review

Abstract

E-cigarettes, a widely used emerging product, are facing growing popularity despite little research into their health risks. Electronic Cigarette Use Associated Lung Injury, or EVALI, has become a prominent concern in recent research, expanding the need to understand the health effects of vaping, given the diversity of technologies and liquids involved. An integrative review was carried out to analyze the relationship between electronic cigarettes and lung injuries, using the PubMed database. 664 articles were selected, with inclusion criteria based on human studies published between 2018 and 2023. The analysis, exclusion and selection process was carefully conducted by the authors. Electronic cigarettes, consisting of a battery, atomizer and liquid, stand out due to the uncertainty about their health effects, in contrast to traditional cigarettes. EVALI, predominantly associated with the vaporization of THC products, reveals serious symptoms and significant risks. The complex composition of e-liquids, especially when exposed to high temperatures, generates harmful substances, including carbonyl compounds, suspected of causing oxidative stress and inflammation in the airways. The integrative review highlights the lack of consensus on the safety of electronic cigarettes and the urgency in understanding the associated risks. EVALI, as a diagnosis of exclusion, highlights the need for immediate investigation in the event of respiratory symptoms. Treatment and monitoring of EVALI patients requires a careful approach, considering clinical and risk factors. Public education about potential dangers and cessation strategies becomes crucial, especially among young people.