Vaping immediately affects vascular health and oxygen levels, study shows, even without nicotine

A new study shows that vaping can immediately affect blood vessel function, even when e-cigarettes don’t contain nicotine. The research suggests that vaping may pose long-term health risks, including vascular problems.

Immediate Impact on Blood Flow

The study, presented at the Radiological Society of North America’s annual meeting, found that vaping reduced blood flow and oxygen levels. Dr. Marianne Nabbout, a radiology resident at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and the study’s lead author, studied how e-cigarettes, both with and without nicotine, affect vascular health.

MRI scans revealed a drop in blood flow in the femoral artery, particularly after participants vaped. The study involved 31 smokers and vapers, aged 21 to 49, and compared their results with 10 non-smokers. The participants who vaped, especially those using nicotine-based e-cigarettes, showed the most significant decrease in blood flow.

Health Risks: Poor Vascular Function and Long-Term Effects

Vascular health is essential for proper blood circulation, which delivers oxygen and nutrients to tissues and removes waste. Poor vascular function could lead to issues such as blood clots, high blood pressure, and strokes. The study suggests that vaping, even without nicotine, contributes to these problems.

Dr. Albert Rizzo, Chief Medical Officer at the American Lung Association, noted that the chemicals in e-cigarettes—such as formaldehyde and lead—could irritate the airways and lead to inflammation. This inflammation could damage the cardiovascular system and increase the risk of heart disease and strokes over time.

Regulation of E-Cigarettes: What the Research Means

This research may influence how the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates e-cigarettes. The FDA is currently reviewing product applications from vaping companies. Dr. Nabbout hopes the study will help regulators make more informed decisions about which products should remain on the market.

Although e-cigarettes are marketed as safer alternatives to smoking, the study suggests that vaping still poses health risks. Experts, especially those concerned about the popularity of flavored e-cigarettes among young people, are increasingly worried about long-term health consequences.