Dual use of e-cigarettes and combustible cigarettes elevates salivary DKK1 levels similar to exclusive smoking

Background

Animal models and in vitro studies have demonstrated that the use of electronic cigarettes causes inflammation, oxidative stress, and cell death. This study aimed to quantify molecules associated with cell death in the saliva of dual electronic cigarette users and to compare these levels with those observed in users of combustible cigarettes. Methodology: We included three groups: (1) e-cigarette users who additionally smoke combustible cigarettes, "dual users" (DU users, n = 56), combustible cigarette smokers (CCS, n = 23), and non-smokers (NS, n = 40). We evaluated 10 molecules using a multiplex assay.

Results