Problematic social media use and vaping among Mexican-American college students.

Introduction: Social media use and vaping nicotine are highly prevalent in the daily lives of young adults, especially among Mexican-American college students. The excessive and compulsive use of social media platforms, coupled with the urge to stay continuously connected, can lead to problematic social media use. To date, no studies have explored the impact of problematic social media use on the daily patterns of vaping among this vulnerable population. Methods: In Spring 2023, we employed Ecological Momentary Assessment over a period of 14 days to collect real-time daily data on participants' social media use and vaping behaviors via a mobile phone-based application. Participants were 51 Mexican-American college students aged 18-25 years, 72.5% female, who were current vapers. We used generalized linear regression models to examine differences in vaping behaviors among participants with and without problematic social media use. All regression models adjusted for age, sex, and SES. Results: Participants with problematic social media use vaped on an average of 5.9 days compared to 5.7 days reported by those without problematic social media use (p < .05). Problematic social media use is associated with more frequent daily vaping [b = 0.03; 95% CI: 0.02-0.05], increased number of days vaping [b = 0.14; 95% CI: 0.07-0.20], and vaping higher nicotine concentrations [b = 0.08; 95% CI: 0.03-0.14]. Conclusion: Results suggest that problematic social media use significantly increases the risk of daily vaping among Mexican-American college students. Findings highlight the need to strengthen digital resilience and social media literacy to help college students navigate and mitigate the risks of social media.

Lesión pulmonar asociada al vapeo: informe de un caso / Lung injury associated with vaping: A case report

Resumen El vapeo es la práctica de inhalar un aerosol creado al calentar un líquido con cigarrillo electrónico. Estos aerosoles contienen tóxicos, compuestos cancerígenos y nicotina, sustancia adictiva. En nuestro país está pro hibida la comercialización del cigarrillo electrónico. La lesión pulmonar aguda asociada al vapeo (EVALI) es una enfermedad respiratoria aguda potencialmente mortal. Se presenta el caso de un varón de 18 años, tabaquis ta, que consultó por falta de aire y fiebre. Presentaba insuficiencia respiratoria hipoxémica y leucocitosis, refiriendo reciente inicio de utilización de cigarrillo electrónico. En la tomografía computarizada de tórax (TC) se observaban extensas áreas en "vidrio esmerilado" bilaterales y áreas de consolidación con broncograma aéreo. Se inició tratamiento antibiótico y se realizó una fibrobroncoscopia que mostró restos hemáticos sin lesiones endoluminales. Se interpretó como EVALI y se indicaron corticoides sistémicos. El paciente evolu cionó favorablemente y egresó a las 48 h de finalizado el tratamiento. En TC de control se observó mejoría de las lesiones. El diagnóstico de EVALI es de exclusión. Existen dife rentes scores que describen la probabilidad de un EVALI. Los Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pro pusieron en 2019 una definición de caso confirmado de EVALI basado en la exposición al vapeo, las imágenes, la presentación clínica y los antecedentes. La primera notificación de un caso de EVALI en la Argentina fue en el año 2019. Es importante conocer los criterios diagnós ticos para poder iniciar un tratamiento preciso y precoz, considerando el aumento exponencial del uso de ciga rrillo electrónico, principalmente en la población joven.

Abstract Vaping is the practice of inhaling an aerosol cre ated by heating a liquid with an electronic cigarette. These aerosols contain toxic, carcinogenic compounds and nicotine, an addictive substance. In Argentina, the commercialization of electronic cigarettes is prohibited. Acute lung injury associated with vaping (EVALI) is an acute respiratory disease that can be life threatening. An 18-year-old male patient, smoker, consulted for shortness of breath and fever. He presented with hypox emic respiratory failure, and leukocytosis. The patient reported use of electronic cigarettes. Chest computed tomography (CT) showed extensive areas of ground glass opacities with areas of consolidation with air bronchogram. Antibiotic treatment was started and a fibrobronchoscopy was performed, which showed he matic debris, without endoluminal lesions. A diagnosis of EVALI was done and high doses systemic corticoste roids were prescribed. The patient evolved favorably, hewas discharged 48 hours after the end of treatment. In the control ambulatory CT was observed an improve ment of the lesions.561 EVALI is an exclusion diagnosis, so it is necessary to rule out infectious diseases and pulmonary inflamma tory processes. There are different scores that describe the probability of EVALI. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), developed in 2019 a definition of confirmed case based on vape exposure, imaging, clinical presentation and history. In 2019 was first reported an EVALI in Argentina. It is important to know the criteria for a confirmed case to initiate accurate and early treat ment, considering the exponential increase in electronic cigarette use, mainly in the young population.

Association between the use of electronic cigarettes and myocardial infarction in U.S. adults.

BACKGROUND: Compared with conventional cigarettes, electronic cigarettes are less harmful in some studies. However, recent research may indicate the opposite. This study aimed to determine whether e-cigarette use is related to myocardial health in adults in the U.S. METHODS: This study used data from the 2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), a cross-sectional survey of adult US residents aged 18 years or older. We examined whether e-cigarette use was related to myocardial infarction byapplying a logistic regression model to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS: The final analytical sample included 198,530 adults in the U.S. Logistic regression indicated that U.S. adults who reported being former and some days of e-cigarette use had 23% and 52% greater odds of ever having an MI, respectively, than did those who reported never using e-cigarettes (OR = 1.23, 95% CI 1.08-1.40, p = 0.001; OR = 1.52, 95% CI 1.10-2.09, p = 0.010). CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that former and someday users of e-cigarettes probably have increased odds of myocardial infarction in adults in the U.S. Further research is needed, including long-term follow-up studies on e-cigarettes, since it is still unknown whether they should be discouraged.

Direct health implications of e-cigarette use: a systematic scoping review with evidence assessment.

Background: E-cigarettes are often marketed as a less harmful alternative to traditional tobacco cigarettes. Despite their popularity, the evidence regarding their effects on human health remains unclear and is filled with complexities. Objectives: This systematic review aims to elucidate the direct effects of electronic cigarette use on human health, carefully distinguishing between the specific characteristics of the populations studied. Methodology: Adhering to the PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a comprehensive search in PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases without date restrictions, including articles in both Spanish and English. This approach enabled the identification and analysis of primary studies to understand the direct effect of electronic cigarettes on human health. Results: A total of 33 studies were included that evaluated cardiovascular, pulmonary, renal, weight and fertility effects. Only five studies analyzed e-cigarettes in healthy populations and seven studies compared healthy individuals against smokers. The effects evaluated on smokers or former tobacco smokers were apparently positive, however, among healthy individuals, increased heart rate, mean arterial pressure, oxidative stress, alteration of respiratory epithelial cells and increased airflow resistance were found. Conclusion: Smokers or former smokers who switch to e-cigarettes may reduce their exposure to carcinogens and lower their risk of developing severe health issues associated with conventional smoking. However, in healthy individuals who have never smoked traditional cigarettes, the use of e-cigarettes introduces several cardiovascular and respiratory adverse effects. These findings suggest that while e-cigarettes can be a strategic harm reduction tool for smokers, they are not a safe option for non-smokers.

[Lung injury associated with vaping: A case report]. / Lesión pulmonar asociada al vapeo: informe de un caso.

Vaping is the practice of inhaling an aerosol created by heating a liquid with an electronic cigarette. These aerosols contain toxic, carcinogenic compounds and nicotine, an addictive substance. In Argentina, the commercialization of electronic cigarettes is prohibited. Acute lung injury associated with vaping (EVALI) is an acute respiratory disease that can be life threatening. An 18-year-old male patient, smoker, consulted for shortness of breath and fever. He presented with hypoxemic respiratory failure, and leukocytosis. The patient reported use of electronic cigarettes. Chest computed tomography (CT) showed extensive areas of ground glass opacities with areas of consolidation with air bronchogram. Antibiotic treatment was started and a fibrobronchoscopy was performed, which showed hematic debris, without endoluminal lesions. A diagnosis of EVALI was done and high doses systemic corticosteroids were prescribed. The patient evolved favorably, hewas discharged 48 hours after the end of treatment. In the control ambulatory CT was observed an improvement of the lesions. EVALI is an exclusion diagnosis, so it is necessary to rule out infectious diseases and pulmonary inflammatory processes. There are different scores that describe the probability of EVALI. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), developed in 2019 a definition of confirmed case based on vape exposure, imaging, clinical presentation and history. In 2019 was first reported an EVALI in Argentina. It is important to know the criteria for a confirmed case to initiate accurate and early treatment, considering the exponential increase in electronic cigarette use, mainly in the young population.

El vapeo es la práctica de inhalar un aerosol creado al calentar un líquido con cigarrillo electrónico. Estos aerosoles contienen tóxicos, compuestos cancerígenos y nicotina, sustancia adictiva. En nuestro país está prohibida la comercialización del cigarrillo electrónico. La lesión pulmonar aguda asociada al vapeo (EVALI) es una enfermedad respiratoria aguda potencialmente mortal. Se presenta el caso de un varón de 18 años, tabaquista, que consultó por falta de aire y fiebre. Presentaba insuficiencia respiratoria hipoxémica y leucocitosis, refiriendo reciente inicio de utilización de cigarrillo electrónico. En la tomografía computarizada de tórax (TC) se observaban extensas áreas en "vidrio esmerilado" bilaterales y áreas de consolidación con broncograma aéreo. Se inició tratamiento antibiótico y se realizó una fibrobroncoscopia que mostró restos hemáticos sin lesiones endoluminales. Se interpretó como EVALI y se indicaron corticoides sistémicos. El paciente evolucionó favorablemente y egresó a las 48 h de finalizado el tratamiento. En TC de control se observó mejoría de las lesiones. El diagnóstico de EVALI es de exclusión. Existen diferentes scores que describen la probabilidad de un EVALI. Los Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), propusieron en 2019 una definición de caso confirmado de EVALI basado en la exposición al vapeo, las imágenes, la presentación clínica y los antecedentes. La primera notificación de un caso de EVALI en la Argentina fue en el año 2019. Es importante conocer los criterios diagnósticos para poder iniciar un tratamiento preciso y precoz, considerando el aumento exponencial del uso de cigarrillo electrónico, principalmente en la población joven.

O impacto do cigarro eletrônico na saúde bucal de pacientes adultos jovens / The impact of electronic cigarettes on oral health of young adult patients

O cigarro eletrônico (CE) surgiu como uma alternativa ao uso do cigarro convencional (CC) atuando como um meio de combate ao tabagismo. Apesar de ser considerado menos prejudicial à saúde do que o cigarro convencional, por muitos autores, seu uso não é isento de riscos. O presente estudo visa discutir e elucidar os impactos do uso de cigarros eletrônicos na saúde oral de pacientes adultos jovens. Esta revisão de literatura foi elaborada através da seleção de artigos científicos nos idiomas português e inglês, que abordam os temas de cigarro eletrônico e saúde oral. Utilizaram-se os bancos de dados Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS), PubMed e Google acadêmico, a busca foi baseada nos seguintes descritores de saúde: cigarro eletrônico, vaping e saúde bucal, e os respectivos em inglês, com limite temporal de 2019 a 2023. Diversas pesquisas relatam os efeitos dos cigarros eletrônicos na saúde bucal, como a xerostomia, halitose, cárie dental, perda e avulsão de elementos dentários, doença periodontal e diversas patologias orais. Além disso, os componentes químicos presentes nos líquidos dos cigarros eletrônicos também podem afetar a saúde bucal, podendo levar a danos no esmalte dentário e riscos desconhecidos as células e tecidos da cavidade oral. Logo, é necessário abordar o impacto que os cigarros eletrônicos causam e seus riscos à saúde bucal, além dos riscos já conhecidos para saúde geral dos usuários. Os profissionais de saúde devem estar atentos a essa questão e incluir informações sobre o uso de cigarros eletrônicos em suas avaliações e orientações aos pacientes.

The electronic cigarette (EC) emerged as an alternative to conventional cigarette (CC) use, acting as a means to combat smoking. Despite being considered less harmful to health than conventional cigarettes by many authors, its use is not without risks. The present study aims to discuss and elucidate the impacts of electronic cigarette use on the oral health of young adult patients. This literature review was conducted through the selection of scientific articles in Portuguese and English languages, addressing the topics of electronic cigarettes and oral health. The databases used included the Virtual Health Library (BVS), PubMed, and Google Scholar. The search was based on the following health descriptors: electronic cigarette, vaping, and oral health, and their English equivalents, with a time limit from 2019 to 2023. Several studies report the effects of electronic cigarettes on oral health, such as xerostomia, halitosis, dental caries, tooth loss and avulsion, periodontal disease, and various oral pathologies. Furthermore, the chemical components present in electronic cigarette liquids can also impact oral health, potentially leading to dental enamel damage and unknown risks to oral cavity cells and tissues. Therefore, it is necessary to address the impact and risks of electronic cigarettes on oral health, in addition to the known risks to users' overall health. Health professionals should be attentive to this issue and include information about electronic cigarette use in their assessments and patient guidance.

Attitudes, Behaviors, and Perceptions of Students Vaping in Three Mexican Universities.

The increase in the popularity and use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) has consistently risen worldwide and has become associated with adverse health outcomes. This study has identified the attitudes and perceptions of undergraduate students who vape in three universities in Mexico. A cross-sectional study involving 495 participants was conducted using a survey from October to December 2023. Three universities in different states in Mexico collaborated with colleges in Yucatan, Durango, and Nuevo Leon, Mexico. Descriptive statistics include frequencies and percentages, and four logistic regression models were employed. In the sample, 31% and 17.54% of participants reported smoking and vaping, respectively. Students who reported vaping in the last month reported that their first experience with vaping was at an average of 17.3 years of age, and of those, 71.26% (n = 62) reported having vaped for over 100 days, while the remaining 38% reported vaping for between 2 and 100 days. Students from Veracruz and Yucatan began vaping at a younger age than in the central and northern regions. There is a need to educate students about the dangers of the chemicals in the liquids they use, the secondary exposure vapers, and the health dangers they pose.

Prevalência e fatores associados ao uso de cigarro eletrônico por estudantes universitários / Prevalence and factors associated with electronic cigarette use by university students / Prevalencia y factores asociados al uso de cigarrillos electrónicos por estudiantes universitarios

Este estudo objetivou estimar a prevalência do uso do cigarro eletrônico e a associação com fatores preditores. Trata-se de um estudo transversal, analítico, com amostra probabilística de universitários matriculados em um Centro Universitário de Montes Claros, Minas Gerais, Brasil no segundo semestre de 2022. A variável dependente referiu-se ao uso do cigarro eletrônico. As variáveis independentes referiram a fatores sociodemográficas, laborais e comportamentais. A associação entre as variáveis investigadas e a prevalência do uso do CE foi verificada pela análise bivariada e a regressão de Poisson. Foram entrevistados 730 universitários, com a média de idade de anos 22,56 (±6,25). Destes, 21,8 % faziam o uso cigarro eletrônico e após a análise multivariada manteve-se associado ao desfecho não ter companheiro (RP= 3,31; IC95% 1,04-10,48), morar com amigos/sozinho (RP=1,53; IC95% 1,07-2,18), ter histórico de usuários de cigarro eletrônico na residência (RP= 1,76; IC95%: 1,17- 1,89), consumir bebida alcoólica (RP= 3,07; IC95%: 1,72-5,49) e não praticar atividade física (RP= 3,37; IC95% 2,35-4,83). Conhecer sobre o cigarro eletrônico foi fator protetor (RP= 0,31 IC95% 0,20-0,46). Registrou-se elevada prevalência do uso do cigarro eletrônico, e manteve associados a fatores sociodemográficos e comportamentais. Esses achados chamam a atenção para a necessidade de novas medidas regulatórias, a fim de reduzir o uso desse dispositivo.

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of e-cigarette use and the association with predictors. This is a cross-sectional, analytical study with a probabilistic sample of university students enrolled in a University Center of Montes Claros, Minas Gerais, Brazil in the second half of 2022. The dependent variable referred to the use of electronic cigarettes. The independent variables referred to sociodemographic, labor and behavioral factors. The association between the variables investigated and the prevalence of EC use was verified by bivariate analysis and Poisson regression. A total of 730 university students were interviewed, with a mean age of 22.56 (±6.25). Of these, 21.8% used electronic cigarettes and after multivariate analysis, it remained associated with the outcome of not having a partner (PR= 3.31; CI95% 1.04-10.48), living with friends/alone (PR=1.53; CI95% 1.07-2.18), having a history of e-cigarette users in the residence (PR= 1.76; CI95%: 1.17- 1.89), alcohol consumption (PR= 3.07; CI95%: 1.72-5.49) and not practicing physical activity (PR= 3.37; IC95% 2.35-4.83). Knowing about electronic cigarettes was a protective factor (PR= 0.31 CI95% 0.20-0.46). There was a high prevalence of e-cigarette use, and it was associated with sociodemographic and behavioral factors. These findings draw attention to the need for new regulatory measures in order to reduce the use of this device.

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo estimar la prevalencia del uso de cigarrillos electrónicos y la asociación con predictores. Se trata de un estudio analítico transversal con una muestra probabilística de estudiantes universitarios matriculados en un Centro Universitario de Montes Claros, Minas Gerais, Brasil, en el segundo semestre de 2022. La variable dependiente se refería al uso de cigarrillos electrónicos. Las variables independientes se refirieron a factores sociodemográficos, laborales y conductuales. La asociación entre las variables investigadas y la prevalencia de uso de CE fue verificada por análisis bivariado y regresión de Poisson. Fueron entrevistados 730 estudiantes universitarios, con una edad promedio de 22,56 (±6,25). De estos, 21,8% utilizaron cigarrillos electrónicos y después del análisis multivariado, se mantuvo asociado con el resultado de no tener pareja (RP= 3,31; IC95% 1,04-10,48), vivir con amigos/solo (RP=1,53; IC95% 1,07-2,18), con antecedentes de usuarios de cigarrillos electrónicos en la residencia (RP= 1,76; IC95%: 1,17- 1,89), consumo de alcohol (RP= 3,07; IC95%: 1,72-5,49) y no practicar actividad física (RP= 3,37; IC95% 2,35-4,83). El conocimiento de los cigarrillos electrónicos fue un factor protector (RP= 0,31 IC95% 0,20-0,46). Hubo una alta prevalencia de uso de cigarrillos electrónicos, y se asoció con factores sociodemográficos y de comportamiento. Estos hallazgos llaman la atención sobre la necesidad de nuevas medidas regulatorias para reducir el uso de este dispositivo.

The impact of traditional smokers versus electronic cigarette smokers on periodontal parameters in iraqi males / O impacto do uso de cigarros tradicionais versus uso de cigarros eletrônicos nos parâmetros periodontais em homens iraquianos

Objective: To compare the effects of vaping and cigarette smoking and indicate their impact on periodontal health. Material and Methods: A total of 90 subjects divided into three groups. Group I: 30 Traditional cigarettes smoker who have smoked up to 10 cigarettes, Group II: 30 electronic cigarettes subjects who have been using vape at least one year and never smoke, and Group III: 30 subjects who have no smoking history. Using a mirror and a periodontal probe, periodontal parameters (plaque index, gingival index, probing depth and clinical attachment loss) were used to evaluate periodontal health. Results: The findings showed that the periodontal parameters had a highly significant differences at P ≤ 0.01 between traditional and electronic smoking groups. While clinical attachment loss demonstrated non-significant difference P ≥ 0.05 in comparison between electronic cigarettes and the group who never smoke. Conclusion: The results of this study suggested that traditional cigarettes and electronic cigarettes both had unfavorable impact on periodontal health status, never the less quit smoking showed positive impacts on periodontal parameters (AU)

Objetivo: O objetivo foi comparar os efeitos do uso do cigarro eletrônico e do cigarro convencional, indicando seus impactos na saúde bucal. Material e Método: 90 indivíduos foram divididos igualmente em três grupos: Grupo I, usuários de cigarro convencional que fumaram até 10 cigarros por dia; Grupo II: usuários de cigarro eletrônico que utilizam este por pelo menos há 1 ano e não fumavam antes disso; Grupo III: usuários sem qualquer história de hábitos tabagistas. Utilizando um espelho bucal e uma sonda periodontal, parâmetros periodontais (índice de placa, índice gengival, profundidade de sondagem e perda de inserção clínica) foram coletados para avaliar a saúde periodontal. Resultados: As evidências mostraram que os parâmetros periodontais apresentaram diferença significativa (P ≤ 0.01) entre os grupos I e II. Conclusão: Os resultados deste estudo sugerem que tanto o uso de cigarro convencional como o de cigarro eletrônico possuem impactos desfavoráveis na saúde periodontal, e que a cessação do uso destes mostraram impactos positivos nos parâmetros periodontais(AU)

Tobacco industry strategies to influence the regulation of new and emerging tobacco and nicotine products in Latin America and the Caribbean / Estrategias de la industria tabacalera para influir en la regulación de los productos de tabaco y nicotina novedosos y emergentes en América Latina y el Caribe / Estratégias da indústria do tabaco para influenciar a regulamentação de produtos novos e emergentes de tabaco e nicotina na América Latina e no Caribe

ABSTRACT Objective. To document tobacco industry strategies to influence regulation of new and emerging tobacco and nicotine products (NETNPs) in Latin America and the Caribbean. Methods. We analyzed industry websites, advocacy reports, news media and government documents related to NETNPs, focusing on electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco products. We also conducted a survey of leading health advocates. We applied the policy dystopia model to analyze industry action and argument-based strategies on NETNP regulations. Results. Industry actors engaged in four instrumental strategies to influence NETNP regulation - coalition management, information management, direct involvement in and access to the policy process, and litigation. Their actions included: lobbying key policy-makers, academics and vaping associations; providing grants to media groups to disseminate favorable NETNP information; participating in public consultations; presenting at public hearings; inserting industry-inspired language into draft NETNP legislation; and filing lawsuits to challenge NETNP bans. The industry disseminated its so-called harm reduction argument through large/influential countries (e.g., Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico). Industry discursive strategies claimed NETNPs were less harmful, provided safer alternatives, and should be regulated as so-called harm reduction products or have fewer restrictions on their sale and use than those currently in place. Conclusion. Our analysis provides a better understanding of industry strategies to undermine tobacco and nicotine control. To help counter industry efforts, health advocates should proactively strengthen government capacities and alert policy-makers to industry attempts to create new regulatory categories (so-called reduced-risk products), provide misleading information of government authorizations of NETNPs, and co-opt so-called harm-reduction messages that serve the industry's agenda.

RESUMEN Objetivo. Documentar las estrategias de la industria tabacalera para influir en la regulación de los productos de tabaco y nicotina novedosos y emergentes (PTNNE) en América Latina y el Caribe. Métodos. Se analizaron los sitios web de la industria, los informes de defensa de la salud, los medios de información y los documentos gubernamentales relacionados con los PTNNE, prestando especial atención a los cigarrillos electrónicos y los productos de tabaco calentado. También se realizó una encuesta a líderes de la promoción de la salud. Aplicamos el modelo de distopía política para analizar las estrategias de acción y argumentación de la industria en relación con la regulación de los PTNNE. Resultados. Las partes interesadas de la industria recurrieron a cuatro estrategias instrumentales para influir en la regulación de los PTNNE: gestión de coaliciones, gestión de la información, participación directa y acceso al proceso de formulación de políticas, y litigios. Sus acciones incluyeron: trabajar con los principales responsables de la formulación de políticas, académicos y asociaciones de vapeo; conceder subvenciones a grupos de medios de comunicación para que difundan información favorable a los PTNNE; participar en consultas públicas; realizar presentaciones en audiencias públicas; introducir un lenguaje inspirado por la industria en la legislación sobre los PTNNE; y presentar demandas judiciales para dificultar las prohibiciones de los PTNNE. La industria difundió su argumentación, denominada de reducción de daños, en países grandes e influyentes como, por ejemplo, Argentina, Brasil y México. Las estrategias discursivas de la industria afirmaban que los PTNNE eran menos nocivos, proporcionaban alternativas más seguras y debían regularse del mismo modo que los denominados productos de reducción de daños o tener menos restricciones que las vigentes en la actualidad para su venta y consumo. Conclusión. Este análisis permite comprender mejor las estrategias de la industria para socavar el control del tabaco y la nicotina. Para contribuir a contrarrestar los esfuerzos de la industria, los defensores de la salud deberían fortalecer activamente las capacidades gubernamentales y alertar a los responsables políticos de los intentos de la industria de crear nuevas categorías reglamentarias (los denominados productos de riesgo reducido), proporcionar información engañosa sobre las autorizaciones gubernamentales de los PTNNE y apropiarse de los denominados mensajes de reducción de daños que responden a la agenda de la industria.

RESUMO Objetivo. Documentar as estratégias usadas pela indústria do tabaco para influenciar a regulamentação de produtos novos e emergentes de tabaco e nicotina (NETNPs, sigla em inglês) na América Latina e no Caribe. Métodos. Foram analisados sites do setor, relatórios de ativistas, notícias em meios de comunicação e documentos governamentais relacionados aos NETNPs, com foco em cigarros eletrônicos e produtos de tabaco aquecido. Também foi realizada uma pesquisa com ativistas importantes na área da saúde. O modelo de distopia política foi utilizado para analisar as ações e as estratégias baseadas em argumentos do setor para a regulamentação de NETNPs. Resultados. Os agentes do setor utilizaram quatro estratégias instrumentais para influenciar a regulamentação de NETNPs: gestão de coalizões; gestão de informações; envolvimento direto e acesso ao processo de formulação de políticas; e ações legais. As ações dos agentes incluíram: trabalhar com os principais formuladores de políticas, acadêmicos e associações de cigarros eletrônicos; conceder subsídios a grupos de comunicação para disseminar informações favoráveis aos NETNPs; participar de consultas públicas; fazer apresentações em audiências públicas; inserir linguagem gerada pela indústria na legislação de NETNPs; e entrar com ações judiciais para contestar proibições de NETNPs. O setor disseminou seu argumento de "redução de danos" em países grandes e influentes (por exemplo, Argentina, Brasil e México). As estratégias discursivas do setor afirmavam que os NETNPs eram menos prejudiciais, ofereciam alternativas mais seguras e deveriam ser regulamentados como "produtos de redução de danos" ou ter menos restrições à venda e ao uso do que as atualmente em vigor. Conclusão. Nossa análise oferece uma melhor compreensão das estratégias usadas pelo setor para enfraquecer o controle do tabaco e da nicotina. Para ajudar a combater os esforços do setor, os ativistas em saúde devem fortalecer de forma proativa a capacidade dos governos e alertar os formuladores de políticas sobre as tentativas da indústria de criar novas categorias regulatórias (os chamados "produtos de risco reduzido"), fornecer informações enganosas sobre as autorizações governamentais de comercialização dos NETNPs e cooptar mensagens de "redução de danos" para atender aos interesses do setor.

Cuantificación de cannabinoides y acetato de vitamina E en cartuchos para vaporizar incautados en Chile / Quantification of cannabinoids and vitamin E acetate in vape cartridges seized in Chile

Resumen La marihuana es la droga de abuso de mayor consumo en Chile y el mundo. La forma de consumo más utilizada es fumada como cigarrillos, sin embargo, en el último tiempo se ha masificado el uso de vaporizadores. Estos dispositivos utilizan calor para evaporar la resina que se encuentra al interior de los cartuchos, la cual está compuesta principalmente por delta-9-tetrahidrocannabinol en altas concentraciones y otros aditivos como propilenglicol y acetato de vitamina E. En Estados Unidos se ha descrito toxicidad letal asociado al uso de estos dispositivos. En Chile no se conocen intoxicaciones asociadas a estos productos, sin embargo, su uso ha aumentado en los últimos años por lo que es importante conocer cuál es su composición química. El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar la concentración de los principales compuestos presentes en los cartuchos para vaporizar que son incautados en nuestro país y para esto se im-plementó una metodología analítica para cuantificar los cannabinoides delta-9-tetrahidrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), canna-binol (CBN), y acetato de vitamina E mediante la técnica cromatografía gaseosa con detector de espectrometría de masas (GC/MSD). Se analizaron 51 muestras de cartuchos con una concentración promedio de THC de 60,2% (p/p). Las concentraciones de CBD y CBN no superaron el 2% (p/p) y en el caso de acetato de vitamina E fue detectado en 9 muestras con una concentración promedio de 51,4% (p/p).

Abstract Marijuana is the most widely used drug of abuse in Chile and the world. The most common form of consumption is smoking cigarettes, but more recently the use of vaporizers has become widespread. These devices use heat to vaporize the resin in the cartridges, which consists mainly of THC in high concentrations and other additives such as propylene glycol and vitamin E ace-tate. Lethal toxicity associated with the use of these devices has been described in the United States. In Chile, there are no known poisonings associated with these products; however, their use has increased in recent years, so it is important to know their chem-ical composition. The aim of this study was to determine the concentration of the main compounds present in the vaporizer car-tridges seized in our country. To this end, an analytical methodology was implemented to quantify the cannabinoids delta-9-tetra-hydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabinol (CBN), and vitamin E acetate using the GC/MSD technique. Fifty-one cartridge samples were analyzed with an average THC concentration of 60.2% (w/w). The concentrations of CBD and CBN did not exceed 2% (w/w) and in the case of vitamin E acetate it was detected in 9 samples with an average concentration of 51.4% (w/w).

Addiction to Tobacco Smoking and Vaping.

The tobacco epidemic has been one of the biggest public health threats, and smoking is one of the world's largest preventable causes of premature death. An estimated 15.4% of all deaths in the world are attributable to tobacco smoking. The present review aims to describe addiction to tobacco smoking and vaping. Tobacco and vaping devices contain nicotine, a highly addictive drug, which explains why smoking is so prevalent and persistent. Electronic cigarettes are a group of novel nicotine or tobacco products that have rapidly gained popularity in recent years. Electronic cigarette devices allow for the use of other drugs, including THC, while the lax regulation may allow for the introduction of toxic compounds that can lead to acute or subacute toxicity, such as the e-cigarette- or vaping-associated lung injury that has been linked to vitamin E acetate. In addition, regular vapers and heated tobacco devices emit toxins, although at lower concentrations than burned tobacco. However, more and more side effects have been identified. No new effective treatment for nicotine addiction has been developed recently, despite its huge adverse impact on overall health and other outcomes. As for the primary line of medications, the last one started in 2006, the varenicline, demonstrating a low interest in developing new medications against smoking, an unacceptable state of affairs, given the huge impact of smoking on morbidity and mortality.

Addiction to Tobacco Smoking and Vaping

ABSTRACT The tobacco epidemic has been one of the biggest public health threats, and smoking is one of the world's largest preventable causes of premature death. An estimated 15.4% of all deaths in the world are attributable to tobacco smoking. The present review aims to describe addiction to tobacco smoking and vaping. Tobacco and vaping devices contain nicotine, a highly addictive drug, which explains why smoking is so prevalent and persistent. Electronic cigarettes are a group of novel nicotine or tobacco products that have rapidly gained popularity in recent years. Electronic cigarette devices allow for the use of other drugs, including THC, while the lax regulation may allow for the introduction of toxic compounds that can lead to acute or subacute toxicity, such as the e-cigarette- or vaping-associated lung injury that has been linked to vitamin E acetate. In addition, regular vapers and heated tobacco devices emit toxins, although at lower concentrations than burned tobacco. However, more and more side effects have been identified. No new effective treatment for nicotine addiction has been developed recently, despite its huge adverse impact on overall health and other outcomes. As for the primary line of medications, the last one started in 2006, the varenicline, demonstrating a low interest in developing new medications against smoking, an unacceptable state of affairs, given the huge impact of smoking on morbidity and mortality.

Genotoxicity and hypomethylation of LINE-1 induced by electronic cigarettes.

Currently, the marketing of electronic cigarettes as a safe alternative to smoking has increased, which is associated with greater use of these devices, especially among young people and smokers interested in quitting tobacco cigarettes. Given the growing use of this type of product, there is a need to determine the consequences of electronic cigarettes on human health, especially since many of the compounds contained in the aerosol and liquid of these devices have a high potential to be carcinogenic and genotoxic. Additionally, many of these compounds' aerosol concentrations exceed the safe limits. We have evaluated the levels of genotoxicity and changes in DNA methylation patterns associated with vaping. We analyzed a total of 90 peripheral blood samples from a population of vapers (n = 32), smokers (n = 18), and controls (n = 32), in which the frequencies of genotoxicity were determined by the cytokinesis-blocking micronuclei (CBMN) assay and the patterns of methylation of the repetitive elements of LINE-1 through the Quantitative Methylation Specific PCR (qMSP) assay. Here we show an increase in genotoxicity levels associated with vaping habits. Additionally, the group of vapers showed changes at the epigenetic level specifically associated with the loss of methylation of the LINE-1 elements. These changes in LINE-1 methylation patterns were reflected in its representative RNA expression detected in vapers.

Impact of e-cigarettes use on the oral health-related quality of life among young people in metropolitan Lima / Impacto en la calidad de vida relacionada a la salud oral del uso de cigarrillos electrónicos en los jóvenes de Lima metropolitana

Aim: To determine the effects of e-cigarette use on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQOL) in young people in Metropolitan Lima. Materials and Methods: This observational, analytical and cross-sectional study was performed with 189 individuals (age, 18­29 years) who used electronic cigarettes. The OHIP-Sp5 instrument was used to assess OHRQOL. Results: The use of e-cigarettes was higher among male participants (47.79%) than that among the female participants (26.32%). The mean OHRQOL scores of individuals who did and did not use e-cigarettes were 3.17 (2.26) and 3.12 (2.47), respectively These scores for people who did and did not use mouthwash were 2.92 (2.34) and 3.57 (2.43), respectively. Regarding orofacial pain 2.65% participants frequently re-ported "painful discomfort" and 7.41% of the young people presented such discomfort of orofacial aspect "frequently." Conclusions: Recording e-cigarette uses and frequency in patients' medical records is important, as well as incorporating educational strategies to reduce e-cigarette consumption and avoiding harmful effects on general health.

Objetivo: Evaluar el impacto en la calidad de vida relacionada a la salud oral del uso de cigarrillos electrónicos en los jóvenes de Lima Metropolitana. Materiales y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, analítico y transversal en un total de 189 jóvenes con edades comprendidas de 18 a 29 años que son usuarios de cigarrillos electrónicos. Para evaluar la calidad de vida relacionada a la salud oral se utilizó el instrumento "OHIP-Sp5". Resultados: Se determinó que los participantes del sexo masculino (47.79%) son los que más utilizan el cigarrillo electrónico en comparación a las participantes del sexo femenino (26.32%). Se observó una calidad de vida relacionada a la salud oral media de 3,17 (2,26) para los usuarios de cigarrillos electrónicos, mientras que para los no usuarios de cigarrillos electrónicos la media fue de 3,12 (2,47). Asimismo, para los que usan enjuagues bucales se encontró una media de 2.92(2.34), a diferencia de los que no hacían uso del mismo que presentaban peor calidad de vida relacionada con la salud oral con una media de 3.57(2.43). En cuanto a dolor orofacial el 2.65% de los participantes referían "molestias dolorosas" a menudo y el 7.41% de los jóvenes presentaban dicho disconfort de la apariencia orofacial "a menudo". Conclusión: El registro del uso y frecuencia del cigarrillo electrónico en la historia clínica de los pacientes es de suma importancia, así como incorporar estrategias educativas para reducir el consumo de los vapeadores y evitar efectos nocivos en la salud general.

Ocular surface assessment and morphological alterations in meibomian glands with non-contact meibography in electronic cigarette smokers / Avaliação da superfície ocular e das alterações morfológicas nas glândulas meibomianas através de meibografia sem contato em usuários de cigarros eletrônicos

ABSTRACT Purpose: The study aimed to evaluate the ocular surface and meibomian gland morphology in electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) smokers. Methods: The upper and lower eyelids of 25 male e-cigarette smokers and 25 healthy male non-smoker patients were evaluated using Sirius meibography. Meibomian glands loss was automatically calculated using Phoenix meibography imaging software module, with the result obtained as percentage loss. Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, tear breakup time test, and Schirmer II test were administered and performed in all cases. Results: The mean e-cigarette smoking duration was 4.9 ± 0.9 (range, 3.4-7) years. While the mean Schirmer II test value was 9.16 ± 2.09 mm in e-cigarette group, it was 11.20 ± 2.14 mm in control group (p=0.003). Mean tear breakup time was 6.96 ± 2.31 seconds in e-cigarette group and 9.84 ± 2.13 seconds in control group (p=0.002). The mean OSDI value was 28.60 ± 6.54 and 15.16 ± 7.23 in e-cigarette and control groups, respectively (p<0.001). In Sirius meibography, the average loss for the upper eyelid was 23.08% ± 6.55% in e-cigarette group and 17.60% ± 4.94% in control group (p=0.002), and the average loss for the lower eyelid was 27.84% ± 5.98% and 18.44% ± 5.91%, respectively (p<0.001). Additionally, a significant positive correlation was identified between the loss rates for both upper and lower eyelid meibography with e-cigarette smoking duration (r=0.348, p<0.013 and r=0.550, p<0.001, respectively). Conclusion: Long-term e-cigarette smoking causes damage to the meibomian glands; therefore, meibomian gland damage should be considered in ocular surface disorders due to e-ci­garette smoking.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a superfície ocular e a morfologia da glândula meibomiana em usuários de cigarros eletrônicos. Métodos: Foram avaliadas através de meibografia Sirius as pálpebras superiores e inferiores de 25 usuários de cigarros eletrônicos do sexo masculino e 25 pacientes não usuários saudáveis, também do sexo masculino. A perda nas glândulas meibomianas foi calculada automaticamente com o módulo de software de imagem de meibografia Phoenix. O resultado foi obtido como perda percentual. O questionário Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), o teste do tempo de ruptura lacrimal e o teste de Schirmer II foram administrados em todos os casos. Resultados: A duração média do uso de cigarros eletrônicos foi de 4,9 ± 0,9 anos (intervalo de 3,4-7 anos). O valor médio do teste de Schirmer II foi de 9,16 ± 2,09 mm no grupo de usuários de cigarros eletrônicos e de 11,20 ± 2,14 mm no grupo controle (p=0,003). O valor médio do teste do tempo de ruptura lacrimal foi de 6,96 ± 2,31 segundos no grupo de usuários de cigarros eletrônicos e 9,84 ± 2,13 segundos no grupo controle (p=0,002). O valor médio do Ocular Surface Disease Index foi de 28,60 ± 6,54 e 15,16 ± 7,23 para os grupos de usuários de cigarros eletrônicos e controle, respectivamente (p<0,001). Na meibografia de Sirius, a perda média para a pálpebra superior foi de 23,08 ± 6,55% para o grupo de usuários de cigarros eletrônicos e 17,60 ± 4,94% para o grupo controle (p=0,002), e a perda média para a pálpebra inferior foi de 27,84 ± 5,98% e 18,44 ± 5,91%, respectivamente (p<0,001). Além disso, foi observada uma correlação positiva significativa entre a taxa de perda na meibografia palpebral superior e inferior com a duração do tabagismo eletrônico, respectivamente de (r=0,348, p<0,013) e (r=0,550, p<0,001). Conclusão: O uso prolongado de cigarros eletrônicos causa danos às glândulas meibomianas. Portanto, esses danos devem ser considerados em distúrbios da superfície ocular devidos ao uso desses dispositivos.

Suspected Cannabis Vaping-Induced Pericardial Effusion.

Pericardial effusions refer to an excess accumulation of fluid within the pericardial cavity. The etiology is diverse, with most cases being idiopathic in nature. We report a case of suspected cannabis vaping-induced pericardial effusion in a 31-year-old South Asian patient, which was successfully managed with high-dose aspirin, colchicine therapy, and cannabis vaping cessation.Key Clinical Message: Clinicians should be aware of the possible cardiovascular complications of cannabis vaping.

Exposure to e-cigarette advertising and provaping websites, and the social acceptability of their use among nicotine users.

Objectives: To evaluate the prevalence of exposure to Internet communications on and advertising of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and their association with perceptions of the social acceptability of e-cigarettes in Mexico. Methods: Data were analyzed from eight surveys (2018-2021) of an online sample of Mexican adult (> 18 years) smokers and dual users (of combustible and electronic cigarettes). Self-reported exposure to e-cigarette advertising across various marketing channels was assessed, as well as visits to e-cigarette websites. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between perceptions of the social acceptability of e-cigarette use and level of advertising exposure and visits to e-cigarette websites. Results: The Internet and outside e-cigarette stores were where exposure to advertising most occurred, as reported by 47.4% and 46.8% of respondents, respectively. Respondents who noticed e-cigarette advertisements on the Internet (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.43, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.25, 1.63), outside e-cigarette stores (adjusted OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.14, 1.50), and in temporary outlets (adjusted OR 1.16, 95% CI 1.01, 1.34), and those who visited e-cigarette websites (adjusted OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.25, 1.76) were more likely to perceive e-cigarettes as socially acceptable. Noticing advertisements across more channels was also associated with higher perceived social acceptability of e-cigarette use. Conclusions: Being exposed to e-cigarette marketing, either online or through traditional marketing channels, is associated with perceived social acceptability of e-cigarette use, as is contact with provaping sites. Regulatory options to avoid the proliferation of promotional websites disguised as opinion or user sites need to be considered.

Efectos de la exposición pasiva al aerosol de los cigarrillos electrónicos: una revisión de tema / Effects of passive exposure to aerosol from electronic cigarettes: a review

Resumen Los cigarrillos electrónicos sustituyeron el tabaco del cigarrillo convencional por un e-liquid compuesto por varios compuestos orgánicos; estos entraron al mercado sin mayores pruebas toxicológicas preclínicas o ensayos de seguridad a nivel mundial, generando un gran número de personas expuestas al aerosol de segunda mano, en quienes los posibles riesgos aún no han sido dilucidados. El objetivo de esta revisión es identificar los riesgos para la salud de personas expuestas al aerosol de segunda mano de cigarrillos electrónicos. La búsqueda bibliográfica realizó una revisión en las bases de datos PubMed, Scielo y EBSCO, incluyendo estudios realizados en humanos, animales e in vitro. Los principales hallazgos fueron exacerbaciones de asma, enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica, efectos proinflamatorios, estrés oxidativo y ansiedad. La evidencia encontró efectos adversos en personas expuestas al aerosol de segunda mano del cigarrillo electrónico; se destacan exacerbaciones de asma, neumonitis por hipersensibilidad, inflamación y estrés oxidativo.

Abstract Electronic cigarettes replaced the tobacco leaf in conventional cigarettes with an e-liquid composed of multiple organic compounds; these entered the market without major preclinical toxicological tests or safety trials worldwide. Generating a large number of people exposed to second-hand aerosol, to whom the possible risks have not yet been elucidated. The objective of this review was to identify the health risks of people exposed to second-hand aerosol from electronic cigarettes. The review was carried out using PubMed, Scielo and EBSCO databases, including studies carried out in humans, animals and invitro. The main findings were exacerbations of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pro-inflammatory effects, oxidative stress and anxiety. Evidence found adverse effects in people exposed to second-hand aerosol from electronic cigarettes; highlighting exacerbations of asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, inflammation and oxidative stress.

Cigarros eletrônicos e suas consequências histopatológicas relacionadas à doenças pulmonares / E-cigarettes and histopathological consequences related to lung diseases

O cigarro eletrônico surgiu como uma tentativa para minimizar a dependência ao uso de tabaco, entretanto, engloba controvérsias e dúvidas acerca das reais implicações para o organismo humano. Diante disso, o presente estudo tem como objetivo realizar uma revisão da literatura a fim de relacionar o uso de cigarro eletrônico com suas consequências para os humanos. Os estudos analisados relatam experimentos in vitro e in vivo em camundongos, demonstrando menor concentração de poluentes e nocividades no cigarro eletrônico comparado ao convencional, porém, seu potencial efeito maléfico está relacionado à composição do e-líquido, à maneira do uso e à variedade de aromas presentes nos produtos. Além disso, foram verificadas lesões celulares, hiperreatividade das vias aéreas, liberação de citocinas ­ IL-8, IL-10 e TNF, redução da ação antimicrobiana de queratinócitos e potencial apoptose nas células alveolares. Foi observado também um aumento em até cinco vezes da concentração de carboxihemoglobina em comparação ao cigarro comum e um aumento na auto renovação de células de adenocarcinoma pulmonar de células não pequenas, devido à expressão de SOX2. Observa-se também que em casos de DPOC, o cigarro eletrônico não apresenta agravamentos na fisiologia respiratória, contrapondo outras ocorrências como asma, pneumonia, câncer de pulmão e doenças infecciosas que podem ser ocasionadas ou exacerbadas pelo seu uso. Contudo, pelo curto prazo de observação de seus efeitos, não é possível determinar com precisão a segurança dos cigarros eletrônicos, dessa forma, faz-se necessário que mais pesquisas longitudinais sejam desenvolvidas, auxiliando, assim, na construção de evidências sobre a segurança dos cigarros eletrônicos e na regulamentação futura do produto.

Electronic cigarettes emerged as an attempt to minimize tobacco dependence. However, its use is surrounded by controversies and doubts about the real implications for the human organism. Therefore, this study aims at performing a review of the most recent literature to corelate the use of e-cigarettes with their consequences for the human body. The analyzed studies relate in vitro and in vivo experiments on mice, demonstrating lower concentration of pollutants and harmfulness in the electronic cigarette than in conventional cigarettes. However, its potential harmful effect is related to the composition of the e-liquid, in its use and in the variety of aromas in the products. In addition, cellular lesions, airway hyperreactivity, release of IL-8, IL-10 and TNF cytokines could be observed, as well as reduced keratinocyte antimicrobial action and potential apoptosis in alveolar cells. An increase of up to five-fold the concentration of carboxyhemoglobin in comparison to ordinary cigarettes and an increase in self-renewal of non-small pulmonary adenocarcinoma cells due to the expression of SOX2 have also been related. It could also be observed that in COPD cases, e-cigarettes do not present worsening in respiratory physiology, which contrasts with other occurrences such as asthma, pneumonia, lung cancer, and infectious diseases that can be caused or exacerbated by its use. However, due to the short term of observation of the effects, the safety of e-cigarettes could not be accurately determined, thus, the need for further longitudinal research is necessary, which could be used to help build evidence about the safety of e-cigarettes and also to create future regulation of the product.