Electronic Cigarettes

Abstract

Objective To introduce the otolaryngology community to the current state of research regarding electronic cigarettes, with special attention paid to mechanism, impact on health and addiction, and use in smoking cessation. Data Sources Review of Google Scholar and PubMed databases using the keywords electronic cigarettes, e-cigs, e-cigarettes, and vaping. In addition, information from media sources as well as news outlets was evaluated to gauge public perception of research findings. Review Methods Recent research and randomized controlled trials were prioritized. Conclusions The landscape of electronic cigarette devices is evolving, as is the research regarding their risks and benefits. Utilization is rapidly increasing. It appears that older users employ them as a smoking cessation tool compared to younger users. The data are generally inconclusive regarding the benefits of electronic cigarettes for smoking cessation compared with other methods. Furthermore, the safety profile of electronic cigarettes is dynamic and difficult to fully ascertain. Implications for Practice Patients with a variety of otolaryngologic conditions, including cancer, may benefit from frank discussion regarding electronic cigarettes. Furthermore, increasing patient inquiries regarding these devices are likely given their increasing popularity.