A new study is investigating the link between e-cigarettes and heart failure, with one in five participants who smoked e-cigarettes developing heart failure.

Researchers at MedStar Health in Baltimore analyzed data from 175,667 adult participants in the United States over four years. Of these e-cigarette users, 3,242 developed heart failure during the study period. This was 19% higher than he expected from someone who had never vaped.

A variety of socio-economic and demographic factors were considered in determining the study results. Examples include other heart disease risk factors and drug use, such as alcohol and tobacco. Researchers found no evidence of age. Gender and smoking status influenced the relationship between e-cigarettes and heart failure.

Yakub Bene Alhassan is a medical resident at MedStar Health and the study’s lead author. “A growing body of research is linking e-cigarettes to adverse effects and finding that they may not be as safe as previously thought,” he said. The difference we saw was significant. It’s worth considering the impact on your health, especially your heart health. ”

The results of this study are consistent with previous studies conducted in animals, but many other studies in humans have been inconclusive. Dr Bene Alhassan said this was likely because the sample size used was much smaller.

“A lot of damage may have already been done.”

The study authors said the results demonstrate the need for further investigation into the effects of e-cigarettes on heart health. They were particularly concerned about the increasing use of e-cigarettes among younger age groups.

Dr. Bene-Alhassan continued, “I think this study is long overdue, especially given how much attention e-cigarettes have received.” You don’t want to wait too long until it finally turns out that it could be harmful, but by then a lot of the harm may have already been done. As research continues, we will learn more about potential health effects and improve the information available to the public. ”

He also did not recommend using e-cigarettes to quit smoking, as many people continue to use e-cigarettes long after quitting.

The researchers concluded that while they cannot conclusively determine a link between e-cigarettes and heart failure, given the size of the study, a link can be inferred.

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