Switching to E-Cigarettes or Quitting Smoking: A Health Boost for Heart Patients Post-PCI

A recent study, published in the European Heart Journal, highlights that patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) who quit smoking or switched to e-cigarettes after undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) experienced fewer major heart-related complications compared to those who continued smoking regular cigarettes.

Key Insights from the Study

• Participants & Groups: The study analyzed 17,973 adults in South Korea, all smokers who had undergone PCI. They were categorized into three groups:
  1. Continued Smokers: Those who stuck to combustible cigarettes (49.8%).
  2. E-Cigarette Switchers: Those who transitioned to vaping (9.4%).
  3. Successful Quitters: Those who gave up smoking entirely (40.7%).
• Risk of Major Adverse Cardiac Events (MACE):
  • Continued smokers: 17% incidence of MACE.
  • E-cigarette users: 10% incidence.
  • Quitters: 13.4% incidence.
• Exclusive vs. Dual E-Cigarette Users: People who exclusively used e-cigarettes had a significantly lower risk of heart complications compared to those who used both cigarettes and e-cigarettes.

Conclusion

Quitting smoking or switching entirely to e-cigarettes significantly reduces the risk of cardiac issues in CAD patients post-PCI. It emphasizes the importance of supporting patients with effective smoking cessation programs and alternatives.