Pathological findings of respiratory and reproductive organs in male rats exposed to tobacco and electronic cigarette smoke.

BACKGROUND

Exposure to cigarette smoke, whether from traditional or electronic sources, is a growing health concern affecting both humans and animals. Although electronic cigarettes (ECs) (vapes) are often marketed as a safer alternative, evidence supporting their reduced toxicity is still lacking.

AIM: This study aimed to evaluate and compare the pathological effects of exposure to traditional cigarette smoke and EC vaporin rats, particularly focusing on respiratory and reproductive organs.

METHODS

A total of 32 male rats were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 8 per group): control group (no exposure), traditional cigarette smoke exposure group, an EC vapor exposure group, and a combined exposure group. Smoke exposure was administered daily for a specific period. Macroscopic and microscopic evaluations of lung and testicular tissues were performed using a semiquantitative scoring system. Statistical analysis was performed using analysis of variance, with p < 0.05 considered significant.

RESULTS

Significant pathological differences (p < 0.05) were observed between all exposed groups and the control group. However, no significant differences (p > 0.05) were found among the three smoke-exposed groups. Common pathological findings included nodules, fibrosis, emphysema, testicular vacuolization, decreased spermatogenesis, and degenerative changes.

CONCLUSION

Exposure to both traditional and ECs induced comparable pathological changes in lung and testicular tissues. These findings suggest that ECs may pose similar health risks as conventional cigarettes, emphasizing the need for caution in their use and further investigation into their safety profile.