DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/XG5E-JJ84
Author ORCID Identifier
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3613-4196
Defense Date
2025
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
Rehabilitation and Movement Science
First Advisor
Paula Rodriguez Miguelez
Second Advisor
Caroline O. Cobb
Third Advisor
Ryan Garten
Fourth Advisor
Youngdeok Kim
Fifth Advisor
Judith Voynow
Abstract
Introduction: Electronic (e-) cigarettes are battery-powered devices that heat e-liquid into an aerosol that users inhale. They are the most commonly used tobacco products among youth and young adults. Short-term e-cigarette use has been associated with adverse markers of cardiovascular health; however, the long-term effects of regular use on cardiovascular health and disease risk remain unclear.
Purpose: The main objective of this dissertation is to examine the impact of regular e-cigarette use on cardiovascular health and disease risk.
Methods: We investigated cardiovascular health in regular users of e-cigarettes and non-users who are otherwise young, apparently healthy individuals. A comprehensive evaluation of cardiovascular health through cardiorespiratory fitness, macrovascular health, microvascular function, and autonomic health was completed.
Results: The major findings of the study indicate that, compared to non-users, young and apparently healthy, regular users of e-cigarettes exhibited impaired cardiovascular health. In particular, reduced cardiorespiratory fitness, impaired microvascular function, and altered autonomic health were observed while macrovascular function was diminished in those who use e-cigarettes for a longer time. Additionally, underlying mechanisms contributing to impaired microvascular function in users of e-cigarettes were also identified.
Conclusion: This work contributes to a growing body of literature on the cardiovascular effects of regular e-cigarette use in young adults offering new insights into mechanisms affected by the use.
Rights
© Tijana Simovic, © The Vascular and Integrative Physiology Laboratory
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
5-5-2025