Abstract

Background:
Exposure to cigarette smoke, whether from traditional or electronic sources, is a growing health concern affecting both humans and animals, while electronic cigarettes (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 traditional cigarette smoke and electronic cigarette vapor exposure in 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), a traditional cigarette smoke exposure group, an electronic cigarette vapour 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 conducted using a semiquantitative scoring system. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA, 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 electronic cigarette smoke induced comparable pathological changes in lung and testicular tissues. These findings suggest that electronic cigarettes may pose similar health risks as conventional cigarettes, emphasising the need for caution in their use and further investigation into their safety profile.

Key words: Cigarette; Electronic cigarette; Pathology; Secondhand smoker; Toxicology.