New Cross Canada Study to look at long-term effects of vaping on lungs

A new study is looking at nicotine vaping and its long-term effects on our lungs. It’s underway at six academic hospital centres across the country. Laura Struik is one of the researchers involved in B.C.’s Okanagan and tells us about the study.

The Canadian Lung Outcomes in Users of Vaping Devices (CLOUD) study is a new, multi-centre study tracking 500+ Canadian participants over three years to determine the long-term respiratory effects of vaping. Using advanced imaging, this research addresses key questions about lung damage and safety, specifically looking at small airway injury in adolescents and adults.

Key Details of the Study:

• Purpose: To measure the long-term impact of e-cigarettes on lung health.
• Methodology: A 3-year prospective study using lung function tests, imaging, and airway assessments.
• Sites: Involves six academic hospital centres across Canada, including BC Children’s Hospital, University of Alberta, and SickKids.
• Focus: Investigates how nicotine vaping affects small airway structure and function, particularly in teenagers.
• Background: The research comes amid rising rates of youth vaping and limited data on the long-term consequences of inhaling vapour products.

This study aims to provide critical data for clinicians and policymakers regarding the risks of vaping.

View the video on CBC News