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Abstract
Introduction
Electronic cigarettes use is increasing in the United States. One motive for e-cigarette’s popularity is that they wean from combustible cigarettes. Smokers perceive electronic cigarette products as healthier than cigarette smoking and as a useful tool for smoking cessation. However, research has indicated the use of electronic cigarettes may have harmful effects on respiratory function even with short-term use. Respiratory effects of e-cigarette use among asthmatics are little understood.
Objective
The aim of this study was to determine the association between e-cigarette use and frequency of asthma symptoms among adult asthmatics in California from 2015–2016.
Methods
This cross-sectional study included a total of 1277 adult asthmatics. The presence of asthma was based on an adult’s self-reported doctor diagnosis. The analysis was controlled for age, education, sex, race, body mass index, and smoking status.
Results
E-cigarette use was associated with increased odds of having more frequent asthma symptoms (OR = 1.69, CI: 1.20–2.39, p = 0.002; ORadj = 1.65, CI: 1.09–2.49, p = 0.016). Male e-cigarette users were more likely to have more frequent asthma symptoms compared to male nonusers (OR = 1.90, CI: 1.13–3.19, p = 0.015; ORadj = 2.42, CI: 1.28–4.55, p = 0.006). No differences were found between female e-cigarette users and nonusers (OR = 1.43, CI: 0.86–2.37, p = 0.162; ORadj = 1.26, CI: 0.72–2.18, p = 0.162).
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that e-cigarette use is associated with more frequent asthma symptoms and disproportionally affects male asthmatics.
Declaration of interest
The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this article.