The latest evidence on the potential benefits and risks of e-cigarettes has been presented at the European Respiratory Society's International Congress in Munich.
Electronic cigarettes have received much attention in recent years as their use has increased across Europe. As the devices are relatively new, there is little long-term evidence detailing the potential harm or benefit that these devices can cause.
During the ERS Congress, a number of abstracts were presented on the topic. The key outcomes are revealed here:
- Research into the short-term effects of e-cigarettes has established a link between the devices and asthma and emphysema in a mouse model
- E-cigarettes were found to cause similar changes to the cells in the lungs that are seen with normal cigarettes
- Research found that the devices could be used as a successful quitting aid
- Study shows a lack of consensus among doctors advising patients
ERS position on e-cigarettes
The ERS agrees with the recent report from the World Health Organization (WHO) and is opposed to the use of unregulated e-cigarettes. While the short-term negative impact on health appears not as great as tobacco cigarettes, the long-term effects of e-cigarettes are not known. As a Society grounded in scientific principles, ERS believes that the precautionary principle should be applied when scientific evidence is inconclusive and insufficient.
ERS agrees with the WHO proposal and believes that a strong regulatory framework is required in particular to protect children, young people and non-smokers. Furthermore, there is a clear need for more independent research to find out both potential benefits and risks of these products.