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.