The American Heart Association is highlighting growing scientific evidence that e-cigarettes pose significant risks to heart health, contradicting the misconception that vaping is harmless. A study published earlier this month in Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology found that synthetic cooling chemicals used in some e-cigarettes may disrupt heart rhythm, potentially leading to irregular heartbeat and cardiac arrest. This adds to a body of research showing that e-cigarette aerosol contains multiple toxic substances, including formaldehyde and heavy metals, which are linked to cardiovascular, respiratory and cancer-related health risks.
According to the American Heart Association’s 2023 scientific statement on e-cigarettes, led by Dr. Jason J. Rose, people who use e-cigarettes are exposed to chemicals that can harm the heart and blood vessels. Nicotine, present in nearly all e-cigarettes, raises blood pressure and heart rate, narrows blood vessels and forces the heart to work harder. Over time, these effects can lead to heart attack, stroke and heart failure. Nicotine also increases blood clotting and contributes to peripheral artery disease, which raises the risk of serious cardiovascular events, including lower limb amputation. One e-cigarette can contain as much or more nicotine as a pack of cigarettes, increasing the risk of addiction.
Research suggests that inhaling e-cigarette aerosol may contribute to oxidative stress, inflammation, damage to blood vessel function, and changes that can lead to atherosclerosis—a buildup of fatty plaque in the arteries. These conditions are precursors to heart disease. The American Heart Association also warns that claims of cognitive benefits from nicotine are not supported by evidence; any short-term improvements in attention are often relief from withdrawal symptoms rather than true enhancement.
Youth use remains a major concern. Most youth who use e-cigarettes report using flavored products, which appeal to young people and increase the likelihood of continued use. Nicotine exposure during adolescence can harm brain development, affecting attention, learning, impulse control and memory. The American Heart Association supports policies to prohibit the sale of all flavored commercial tobacco and nicotine products, including menthol, and advocates for access to proven cessation tools such as FDA-approved nicotine replacement therapies.
“The tobacco industry relentlessly targets kids and communities with fruit-, candy- and menthol-flavored tobacco products that encourage use, facilitate addiction and increase profits,” said Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association. “After decades of selling products that cause disease and death, tobacco and nicotine companies cannot be trusted to protect public health. No tobacco or nicotine product can be considered safe.” For more information, visit the American Heart Association’s Five Steps to Quit Smoking and Vaping and their policy positions.
