Early Asthma Onset in US Adults Linked to E-Cigarette Use

Listen to this News

A significant link has been found between electronic cigarette use and an earlier age of asthma onset in U.S. adults. The research revealed that adults who were asthma-free at the start of the study and reported e-cigarette use in the past 30 days had a 252% increased risk of developing asthma at an earlier age ().

"While previous studies have reported that e-cigarette use increases the risk of asthma, our study was the first to examine the age of asthma onset," said P�rez, who is also with the Michael and Susan Dell Center for Healthy Living at the School of Public Health.

‘To prevent early onset of #asthma caused by #e-cigarette use, it is essential to implement #tobacco regulations, prevention and intervention campaigns, and cessation programs.’

"Measuring the potential risk of earlier age of asthma onset as it relates to past 30-day e-cigarette use may help people from starting use or motivate them to stop."

The study team analyzed secondary data from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study, a national longitudinal study of tobacco use and how it affects the health of adults and youths in the U.S.

E-Cigarette Use and Age of Asthma Onset

"The findings of the study underscore the need for further research, particularly regarding the impact of e-cigarette use on youth and its association with early age of asthma onset and other respiratory conditions," P�rez said.

"It also highlights the importance of modifying screening guidelines to incorporate recent use of e-cigarettes, which could lead to earlier detection and treatment of asthma, reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with the disease."

P�rez said the study highlights the need to address the health burden of asthma, which results in $300 billion in annual losses due to missed school or workdays, mortality, and medical costs according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Reference:

1. Use of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems and Age of Asthma Onset Among US Adults and Youths - (https:jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2818954)

Source: Eurekalert