Cardiovascular effects
Laboratory studies have pointed out that exposure to e-cigarette can
induce platelet aggregation by upregulating expression of CD41 (GPIIb),
CD42b, and CD62p (P-selectin)119. It also underlies
oxidative stress elevation, impairment of antioxidant defenses (vitamin
E reduction) and endothelium dysfunction/damage, evidenced by the
detection of endothelial progenitor cells and microvescicles into the
bloodstream120–122. All these alterations could play
a role in cardiovascular risk increasement. It has been proven, indeed,
that daily vaping represents an independent risk factor for myocardial
infarction123, synergically amplified by exposure to
nicotine, a parasympathomimetic alkaloid increasing heart rate and blood
pressure124. Additionally, a 30 minutes vaping session
seems inducing an unfavorable effect on aortic stiffness similar to
traditional smoking125.