Impact of Vaping on Cognitive Function in Young Adults: Key Research Findings

Date: September 15, 2024

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Introduction

The correlation between vaping and cognitive performance has garnered significant attention in recent years. A recent study presented at the American Neurological Association annual meeting indicates that vaping may have detrimental effects on cognitive function among young adults, particularly college students.

Study Overview

Conducted among a cohort of 405 Hispanic college students in South America, the study aimed to clarify the relationship between inhalant usage patterns and cognitive abilities. The participants, primarily around the age of 20, were categorized into four groups:

• Exclusive tobacco users
• Exclusive e-cigarette users
• Dual users (both tobacco and e-cigarettes)
• Nonsmokers and non-vapers

Measurement of Cognitive Function

The researchers utilized the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) to measure cognitive performance. The MoCA scores range from a low of 8 to a high of 30, with scores of 26 and above indicating normal cognitive function. This standardized test enabled the researchers to analyze various cognitive aspects, assessing how different categories of inhalant users performed.

Key Findings

Cognitive Scores by User Type

The findings revealed a strong correlation between vaping, smoking, and lower cognitive scores:

• Non-smokers and non-vapers: Highest median MoCA score of 26
• Exclusive tobacco users: Median score of 25
• Exclusive e-cigarette users: Median score of 24
• Dual users: Also a median score of 24

The Impact of Quantity on Scores

The study found that cognitive scores significantly dropped as the frequency of vaping and smoking increased:

• Participants who smoked or vaped 10 to 20 puffs per day scored 9.2% lower than non-users.
• Participants who vaped more than 20 puffs per day recorded scores that were 13.7% lower than those who did not smoke or vape.

Research Implications

Lead study author, Linker Viñan Paucar, emphasized the need for further investigation into the neurocognitive impacts of vaping, particularly regarding brain development during adolescence and young adulthood. “The higher the consumption of electronic cigarettes, the lower the score in the MoCA test,” said Viñan Paucar. “This raises questions about the global implications of excessive e-cigarette consumption and its potential detrimental effects on developing brains.”

Conclusion

This research highlights the significant cognitive risks associated with vaping, urging both parents and healthcare professionals to consider the implications for young adults. Continued research in this area is essential to better understand how these habits may influence cognitive health in the long term.

Reference:

Vaping bad for brain health, first-of-its-kind study shows. Published Sept. 15, 2024. Accessed Sept. 15, 2024.

Sources and Disclosures

Source: Paucar LV, et al. Exploring cognitive impact: Vaping and inhalant behaviors among Hispanic college students. Presented at: American Neurological Association annual meeting; Sept. 14-17; Orlando.

Disclosures: Healio could not confirm the authors’ relevant financial disclosures at the time of publication.

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