Assessment of some biochemical markers in electronic nicotine device smokers in Diyala province
Abstract
Background: Vaping has gained significant popularity among young people in recent years as an alternative to conventional smoking. Despite being promoted as a safer substitute, the health consequences of vaping remain largely unknown. One area of concern is its impact on biochemical markers – substances that reflect changes in physiological processes. We hypothesized that identifying systemic indicators – such as proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, vascular and growth factors, lipid mediators, and markers of elastin degradation – would provide insight into the potential toxicity of e-cigarette use.
This study sought to conduct an observational cross-sectional case-control analysis of several biochemical markers in the biological samples of e-cigarette users and non-smokers in Diyala Province, Iraq.
Methods: Plasma and urine samples were collected, and various biochemical markers were assessed in both e-cigarette users and non-users using the ELISA technique.
Results: Plasma levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-13 (IL-13), and the elastin degradation marker desmosine were significantly higher in e-cigarette users compared to non-smokers. In addition, a significant increase in plasma levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was observed in e-cigarette users compared to non-users. Furthermore, a moderate increase in urinary malonaldehyde levels – an indicator of lipid peroxidation – was noted in e-cigarette users.
Conclusion: This study highlights…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a case-control, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause.
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