E-cigarettes Use among People Living with HIV: Prevalence, Health Impacts, and Behavioral Insights

Background: Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) have gained popularity as an alternative to traditional tobacco smoking among people living with HIV (PLHIV). While e-cigarettes may offer harm reduction benefits, their impact on PLHIV is not fully understood.

Aim: This study aims to synthesize current research on e-cigarette use among PLHIV, focusing on prevalence, health impacts, mental conditions, perceptions, and attitudes.

Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases was conducted. This search included studies from January 2003 to April 2024. We included observational and experimental studies that reported on e-cigarette use among adult PLHIV. Two reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full texts, with data extraction using a standardized form.

Results: Out of 33 initially identified articles, 4 met the inclusion criteria. The studies, conducted in the USA between 2019 and 2023, included 15,617 adults, with approximately 29.29% smokers and 3.08% e-cigarette users. Findings indicated significant e-cigarette use among PLHIV, ranging from 4% to 11% for daily users. Demographic factors influencing e-cigarette use included younger age, male gender, non-Hispanic white ethnicity, and higher education levels. Dual use of e-cigarettes and combustible cigarettes was common. Mental health issues, such as depression and panic disorder, were more prevalent among e-cigarette users. Health benefits included reduced cigarette consumption and improved respiratory symptoms.

Implications: The findings highlight the complex interplay between e-cigarette use, HIV progression, mental health, and overall well-being in PLHIV. These insights are crucial for developing targeted interventions and public health strategies to reduce smoking-related harm in this population.

Conclusion: E-cigarette use among PLHIV is prevalent and associated with both benefits and risks. Continued research is essential to monitor long-term health impacts and inform evidence-based guidelines and interventions tailored to the needs of PLHIV.