Electronic Cigarette Use (Vaping) Among Adolescents: A Narrative Review of an Emerging Public Health Epidemic

The current electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) format was made known to the public in recent decades. Since then, it has gained widespread popularity, particularly among adolescents. A significant portion of young people in the United States and around the world are reported to use e-cigarettes. The reasons for its popularity might be related to its many enticing flavors and being rechargeable. There are many different delivery systems and devices used for e-cigarettes. It took some time for governing organizations, such as the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), to place limitations and regulations on the distribution, advertisement, and easy access by minors. E-cigarettes have been advertised as a safer version of the typical (combustible) cigarettes. Nicotine is the main ingredient of most e-cigarettes. Small amounts of other chemicals, including heavy metals and known carcinogens, have also been detected. Evidence of the harmful nature of e-cigarettes is emerging and alarming. Short-term health effects of e-cigarette use may include oral, respiratory, and cardiac illnesses. Long-term outcomes of e-cigarette use, particularly among adolescents, are unknown. E-cigarettes may help with smoking cessation in adults, but their benefits among adolescents are lacking. The purpose of this narrative review is to summarize the risk factors and discuss potential complications associated with adolescent e-cigarette usage. We will also discuss the evidence for concurrent use of other legal and illegal substances with e-cigarettes. Evidence for the most effective ways for cessation is lacking, and further research is needed.