Study: E-Cigarettes Increase Risk of Prediabetes

In dual users, the abnormalities were even more pronounced: They showed not only stronger insulin resistance but also more frequently blood sugar levels that already fall within the borderline range for diabetes. The study authors conclude that e-cigarettes evidently stress the metabolism in a manner similar to conventional cigarettes, and that in combination with tobacco, the risks increase further.

Results in Dual Users

The research was led by Yusuff Adebisi, who works at the University of Glasgow. Also involved was Othmar Moser, an expert on diabetes and metabolic diseases conducting research at the Medical University of Graz. The team emphasizes that, although the data do not provide causal proof, they strongly suggest a clear connection between e-cigarette use and impaired blood sugar regulation.

The study was published in the journal "Internal and Emergency Medicine". The authors formulate it as follows: "Der Konsum von E-Zigaretten hat weltweit rasant zugenommen, doch die Folgen für die Stoffwechselgesundheit, insbesondere für den Blutzuckerspiegel, sind weiterhin unzureichend erforscht."

Reaction from the Expert Community

The results contradict the frequently expressed assumption that e-cigarettes are a significantly less harmful alternative to tobacco cigarettes. While e-cigarettes contain no tobacco and no combustion smoke, the researchers assume that ingredients such as nicotine, flavorings, and other aerosol components can influence metabolism.

The study authors therefore call for larger and longer studies to clarify the exact mechanisms by which e-cigarettes impair glucose metabolism. It should also be examined whether a complete cessation of e-cigarette use can measurably improve metabolic values within a short period of time.

Recommendations for Practice

From a public health perspective, the study is a warning signal, according to an accompanying commentary. Given the growing number of consumers, particularly among young adults, metabolic diseases could develop into a further societal health problem in the future if use is not curtailed.

For clinical practice, the researchers recommend that future inquiries about lifestyle habits specifically ask about e-cigarette use. Individuals with an elevated risk of diabetes—for example, due to overweight, family history, or lack of exercise—should be particularly pointed out to the additional danger posed by vaping.