A study found that e-cigarette users and smokers had higher levels of Staphylococcus aureus in their respiratory microbiome compared to nonsmokers, with differences in microbial diversity based on sex. Lactobacillus iners, usually seen as protective, was more prevalent in smokers and less prevalent in e-cigarette users. The study identified changes in the nasal microbiome due to e-cigarette use and highlighted sex differences in microbiome composition. The results suggest that e-cigarette use and smoking can affect the nasal microbiome, potentially predisposing individuals to respiratory infections and immune dysfunction. Larger studies and longitudinal research are needed to further understand these effects.
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E-cigarette Use May Alter Healthy Nasal Mucosa
