Cytogenetic Damage from E-cigarette Use
Buccal Micronucleus Frequencies and Policy Implications in the Philippines
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21141/PJP.2026.599Keywords:
e-cigarettes, buccal micronucleus, genotoxicity, youth vaping, tobacco regulation, PhilippinesAbstract
The rapid rise of e-cigarettes and vapes in the Philippines, especially after Republic Act No. 11900, has raised health concerns among youth. Though marketed as safer alternatives, their aerosols have been shown to cause harm. By measuring buccal micronucleus frequencies, this study found significantly higher counts in e-cigarette users compared to non-users, with secondhand smoke exposure independently associated with elevated genotoxic damage (adjusted OR 11.8; p = 0.035). The findings support stricter regulations and broader smoke-free policies to safeguard public health amid the growing use of electronic nicotine delivery systems.
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