AJRCCM: Household exposure to vaping may increase the risk of asthma exacerbations in children

Secondhand exposure to e-cigarettes at home is associated with more frequent asthma exacerbations in children, according to a study presented at the American Academy of Pediatrics conference in San Diego.

The findings were published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.

Researchers analyzed data from more than 48,000 pediatric clinic visits involving children aged one year and older who had been diagnosed with asthma. The observations covered 33 months, from July 2023 to March 2026. Parents reported whether conventional cigarettes were smoked or electronic devices were used in the home.

In 5% of cases, both tobacco products and e-cigarettes were used in the home; in 9%, only conventional cigarettes were used; and in another 3%, only e-cigarettes were used. The strongest association with poor asthma control was observed among children exposed to both types of nicotine products. They experienced more frequent exacerbations, nighttime and exercise-related symptoms, had a greater need for rescue inhalers, and were more likely to require hospitalization.

However, exposure to e-cigarettes alone was also associated with more frequent asthma attacks and exercise-related symptoms. After adjusting for other factors, children living in homes where e-cigarettes were used had an approximately 30% higher likelihood of experiencing an asthma exacerbation and an approximately 40% higher likelihood of having symptoms during physical activity.

According to lead study author Brian Jensen, many parents consider e-cigarettes a safer alternative to conventional cigarettes. The findings, however, suggest that this assumption may be incorrect for children with asthma.

The authors emphasize that parents who use tobacco or nicotine products should strive to quit completely. Jensen cited varenicline, nicotine replacement therapy, and counseling as methods for smoking cessation.

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