Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition impacting millions worldwide, and poses a significant public health concern. In the United States alone, approximately 1 in 13 individuals suffer from this condition, resulting in staggering economic losses of about $300 billion annually due to factors such as missed work and school days1,2. A recent study by Perez et al. underscores the growing prevalence of asthma cases, prompting new research efforts to better understand and address this issue.

While asthma can manifest at any stage of life, certain risk factors increase the chances of developing it, including genetic predisposition, environmental exposures, obesity, and exposure to first or secondhand smoke, among others.3 These factors compound the challenges faced by individuals already struggling with the condition.3

The emergence of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS), commonly known as vapes, e-cigarettes, pens, or pipes, in the early 2000s has introduced a new dangerous element to the landscape of substance consumption. Alarming evidence suggests a concerning association between ENDS usage and early-onset asthma.4 A recent study, encompassing both youth and adult demographics, have unveiled a worrisome correlation between ENDS use and early asthma onset.4

One of the most important findings highlights a pronounced propensity for adults who utilize ENDS to develop asthma at an accelerated rate compared to non-users.4 Similarly, within younger populations, a notable spike in asthma onset emerges around the age of 18, raising red flags regarding the potential impact of ENDS usage on respiratory health during critical developmental stages.4

Moreover, the repercussions extend beyond respiratory health alone. Individuals engaging in ENDS use demonstrate an elevated likelihood of initiating the consumption of other substances, including alcohol and marijuana, thereby amplifying the risk of substance misuse and dependency.5 This relationship underscores the multifaceted nature of public health challenges posed by ENDS usage, creating the need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate associated risks and safeguard individual well-being.

In conclusion, the use of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems and early asthma onset, unveil important public health implications underscoring the need for education and other interventions to address the prevalence of asthma and mitigate the potential respiratory and substance-related risks associated with ENDS usage.

REFERENCES

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Newsletter: Understanding asthma. https://www.cdc.gov/museum/education/newsletter/2022/dec/index.html#:~:text=Risk%20factors%20for%20developing%20asthma,access%20to%20medical%20care%2Fcoverage
  2. National Heart, Lung, and Blood (2024). Asthma. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/asthma
  3. Kuruvilla, M. E., Vanijcharoenkarn, K., Shih, J. A., & Lee, F. E. (2019). Epidemiology and risk factors for asthma. Respiratory Medicine, 149, 16-22. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rmed.2019.01.014
  4. Pérez, A., Valencia, S., Jani, P.P., Harrell, M.B. (2024). Use of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems and Age of Asthma Onset Among US Adults and Youths. JAMA Netw Open. ;7(5):e2410740. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.10740
  5. 2020, January 8. Vaping Devices (Electronic Cigarettes) DrugFacts. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/vaping-devices-electronic-cigarettes