E-Cigarettes: Background and Essential Information for Providers

E-cigarettes are rapidly increasing in use across all populations, particularly in adolescents and young adults. Smoking cessation is important for patients with cancer; however, evidence supporting e-cigarettes as an effective cessation strategy is lacking and not currently recommended. Information on risks, safety, and recommendations regarding vaping will be discussed. Oncology nursing considerations for e-cigarettes include communicating known and potential risks while using smoking cessation strategies for people at risk for cancer or who have cancer and are currently vaping.

AT A GLANCE

• Use of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) is increasing in adolescents and young adults and is associated with increased risk of combustible tobacco use.
• ENDS expose users to carcinogens and toxicants and are associated with nicotine addiction. 
• The dual use of ENDS and combustible tobacco is associated with increased risk of myocardial infarction.