Study Says Nicotine-Free E-Cigarettes May Affect Blood Vessels

According to foreign media reports, e-cigarettes have been associated with many potential health problems, the most concerning of which is the discovery of severe lung disease in some young people who use vaping devices. Some people believe that using nicotine-free e-liquid makes the habit safer, but a new study suggests otherwise — in fact, a single use of a nicotine-free e-cigarette may affect blood vessels.

According to a study from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, nicotine-free e-cigarettes may reduce vascular function after just one use. The study involved MRI scans of 31 healthy adults who were non-smokers.

Participants first underwent MRI scans before using the e-cigarette, and were then scanned again after using a nicotine-free e-cigarette. After analyzing the data, researchers found that this single use led to a significant reduction in femoral artery blood flow and impaired endothelial function.

The research team explained that the endothelium forms the inner lining of blood vessels and helps blood circulate. The study warned that if the endothelial lining is damaged, the affected arteries may begin to thicken, disrupting blood circulation and putting individuals at risk of stroke or heart attack.

This effect may be caused by the e-liquid itself, including glycerol and propylene glycol. The study’s lead investigator, Dr. Felix W. Wehrli, explained: “While e-liquid may be relatively harmless, the vaporization process can transform molecules — mainly propylene glycol and glycerol — into toxic substances.”