Research studies indicate that several chemicals found in e-cigarettes and produced during their use may harm heart health, according to a June 29 article. The American Heart Association said that everyone should be aware of the scientific evidence pointing to potential cardiovascular harms as policymakers evaluate the rapidly evolving market of tobacco and nicotine products.
E-cigarette aerosol is often misrepresented as harmless water vapor, but it typically contains a mix of chemicals, additives, sweeteners, and flavoring agents. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration classifies some of these substances as harmful or potentially harmful constituents. A study published earlier this month in Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology found that synthetic cooling chemicals used in some e-cigarettes may disrupt heart rhythm, which could lead to irregular heartbeat and cardiac arrest.
"We've long known about the health threats of cigarettes and other traditional tobacco products, but as increasing numbers of e-cigarettes and other newer nicotine products are introduced into the market, we are learning more about the health threats of these products," said Jason J. Rose, M.D., M.B.A., American Heart Association volunteer and associate professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore, who served as writing group chair for the American Heart Association's 2023 scientific statement on e-cigarettes. "A growing body of research shows that people who use e-cigarettes can be exposed to chemicals that can harm the heart and blood vessels."
Emerging research suggests inhaling e-cigarette aerosol may contribute to conditions leading to heart disease. Nearly all e-cigarettes contain natural or synthetic nicotine—a highly addictive chemical that can raise blood pressure and heart rate, narrow blood vessels, force the heart to work harder over time, increase blood clotting risk, and contribute to peripheral artery disease. These effects can lead to serious conditions such as heart attack, stroke, heart failure or lower limb amputation.
The level of nicotine in some e-cigarettes equals or exceeds that found in a pack of cigarettes. Nicotine fuels an addiction cycle with temporary calm followed by irritability or anxiety when levels drop—symptoms relieved only by further use. Some products are marketed for cognitive benefits; however, research does not support lasting improvements from nicotine use except short-term changes reflecting relief from withdrawal symptoms rather than actual brain function enhancement.
Public health experts remain concerned about youth vaping due to flavored product appeal increasing likelihood both for continued use and transition toward other tobacco products over time. According to the American Heart Association—and supported by findings from agencies like Centers for Disease Control—nicotine exposure during adolescence affects brain development related to attention span, impulse control and memory while heightening susceptibility even at low doses.
Federal officials continue debating whether commercial sales should continue within United States borders, while organizations such as the American Heart Association advocate banning all flavored tobacco/nicotine sales alongside expanded access toward proven cessation therapies including FDA-approved replacement options plus counseling supports.
