The expansion of electronic cigarettes and their clinical implications

Abstract

Objective: To gather and describe the main clinical repercussions that excessive consumption of electronic cigarettes can cause on users' health and quality of life. Bibliographic review: The use of Electronic Cigarettes (EC) generates significant negative impacts on the human body. Its chemical compounds mainly affect the pulmonary system through the mechanism of increased pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, it also affects the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neurological, and ophthalmological systems, oral and mental health, as well as causing damage if used during pregnancy. These aspects will be discussed throughout this work. Despite ANVISA's prohibitions, these devices continue to be marketed clandestinely, raising concerns about the safety of these products. Final considerations: Although it emerged as an alternative to reduce conventional cigarette consumption, these devices have adverse effects on health depending on the substance inhaled. Therefore, it is crucial to promote greater clarity in the manufacture of these devices to ensure and raise awareness among consumers.