Understanding the Study

A recent study explored the effects of switching to electronic cigarettes (E-cigarettes) in individuals who smoke and have undergone percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) due to coronary artery disease. The study utilised data from the Korean National Health Insurance database, focusing on 17,973 adults who were smokers before their PCI procedure. The aim was to understand how smoking habits changed post-procedure and its impact on health outcomes.

Key Findings

The study categorised participants into three groups: those who continued smoking traditional combustible cigarettes, those who quit smoking, and those who switched to E-cigarettes. Notably, the group switching to E-cigarettes was further divided into dual users (using both combustible and E-cigarettes) and exclusive E-cigarette users.

Results indicated that individuals who switched entirely to E-cigarettes or quit smoking altogether had a lower incidence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) compared to those who continued using traditional cigarettes. Specifically, 10% of E-cigarette switchers and 13.4% of quitters experienced MACE, as opposed to 17% of continued combustible cigarette users. The study showed that those who fully transitioned to E-cigarettes had a notably lower risk of MACE compared to dual users.

Implications for Health

These findings suggest that moving away from combustible cigarette use, whether through quitting or switching to E-cigarettes, may reduce the risk of serious cardiac events. However, it’s crucial to recognise the broader context of nicotine use and the potential long-term health implications. While the study highlights a potential reduction in immediate cardiac risks, the overarching goal should remain the pursuit of a healthier, smoke-free lifestyle.  

As Yakubu Bene-Alhasan notes, “Vapes containing nicotine may increase the risk of heart failure, according to a new study, adding on to previous research that found vaping may increase the risk of heart disease, worsen blood pressure and heart rate, and cause several lung-related health issues”. See more at Forbes

E-Cigarettes and Heart Health: A Closer Look

Switching from regular cigarettes to e-cigarettes may help improve heart health for people with coronary artery disease, but there are still concerns. Quitting smoking completely is always the best option for better health.

Source: Practice Update