Efeitos respiratórios do uso de cigarros eletrônicos em adultos jovens: um estudo transversal

Abstract

Electronic cigarettes produce an aerosol inhaled by the user, and their use has increased, despite growing evidence showing harmful effects on respiratory health. This study aims to compare pulmonary function, respiratory symptoms, and the degree of nicotine dependence among exclusive users of electronic cigarettes, smokers of conventional cigarettes, mixed users, and non-smokers. This is a cross-sectional study with 111 participants aged 18 to 45 years, distributed into four groups: exclusive users of electronic cigarettes (n=31), conventional smokers (n=31), mixed users (n=16), and a control group (n=33). Sociodemographic questionnaires, respiratory symptom questionnaires (ECRHS), and nicotine dependence questionnaires (Fagerström) were applied, in addition to anthropometric assessments and lung function (spirometry). Comparisons between groups were made according to the distribution of the data, adopting a significance level of 5%. The FEV1/FVC ratio was reduced in conventional smokers and mixed users versus exclusive e-cigarette users (p=0.001). Cough was more frequent in conventional smokers (p=0.011), while catarrh ≥3 months/year was more frequent in e-cigarette users (p=0.013), both in relation to controls. Nicotine dependence was highest in conventional smokers, followed by mixed smokers and e-cigarette users. It is concluded that the conventional smokers and mixed users presented lower FEV1/FVC ratios and greater nicotine dependence. Coughing and catarrh production were more frequent among conventional smokers and e-cigarette users, respectively, suggesting respiratory repercussions associated with the use of these products.