An organization recently discussed the benefits and risks of using electronic cigarettes. According to her, the e-cigarette has positive effects in the short term. On the other hand, the possible long-term effects remain to be proven whether they are positive and/or negative.
We still have little perspective on the electronic cigarette . In other words, evoking its effects is a rather difficult exercise. In general, the e-cigarette would be less harmful to cardiovascular health than traditional smoking. On the other hand, it is certain that consumers should not consider it as a harmless device. Cochrane is an independent, not-for-profit international organization. Its purpose is to encourage health decision-making , in particular by providing relevant data. In a publication of October 14, 2020, this organization returned to the issue of the use of e-cigarettes.
The authors reviewed the scientific literature to find studies regarding the use of electronic cigarettes to quit traditional smoking. The aim was to find randomized trials and to know the number of people who quit smoking after six months of use e-cigarettes. It was also a question of taking stock of the possible side effects. No less than fifty studies on the question have been brought together by the authors.
The experiments reported in these studies compare the effectiveness of electronic cigarettes (with nicotine) with different therapies . These include the electronic cigarette without nicotine, the replacement of nicotine with patches or gum, or even varenicline, a partial agonist of the nicotinic receptors of the central nervous system. Let’s also talk about behavioral support in quitting smoking. According to the authors, smokers are more likely to quit their addiction with the help of electronic cigarettes rather than with the other therapies mentioned. Behavioral therapy alone would also be below in terms of effectiveness.
In conclusion, the authors state that nicotine e-cigarettes probably help people quit smoking for at least six months. On the other hand, an important question mark remains as to the long-term effects. There would be a risk of ending up combining tobacco and electronic cigarettes. In addition, new models of e-cigarettes are coming to market with the promise of better nicotine delivery. For the authors, it will also be necessary to verify the positive and negative effects of these new devices.
