E-cigarette use triggers inflammation in the brain, heart and colon

Although they are claimed to be a healthier alternative to traditional cigarettes, a new study on chronic pod-based e-cigarette use has shown that individuals have many health benefits, including the brain, heart, lungs, and colon. focuses on the negative effects it can have on the organ system.

The greatest effect was seen in the brain

University of California San Diego School of Medicine scientists conducted a study focusing on the effects of daily use of capsule-based e-cigarettes on individuals. In tests on mice, chronic use of mint and mango flavored electronic cigarettes was modeled.

Young adult mice were exposed to flavored e-cigarette aerosols three times daily for three months for three months. After three months of exposure to these substances, tests found important inflammatory markers in the brain that showed the greatest effect.

It has been observed that these effects are especially concentrated in the region of the brain called the nucleus accumbens, which is known to manage mechanisms such as reward, pleasure and addiction. The researchers say that ‘neuroinflammation in this region is of great concern as it is linked to anxiety, depression and addictive behaviors that can make substance use and addiction worse’.

As a result of the tests performed, it was stated that although the greatest effect was observed in the brain, there were also negative effects on the heart, lungs and colon.

In the study report published: “Our findings show that chronic inhalation of chemicals in e-cigarette aerosols can lead to inflammatory changes in multiple organ systems. E-cigarette users may unwittingly expose themselves to increased neurological, colonic and cardiac risk. More research is greatly needed to better understand its long-term effects.” statements were included.

Stating that it only covers a three-month period, he says that the effects may occur more intensely in long-term use. It is emphasized that the long and short-term effects of electronic cigarette use should be investigated with new studies.