Análise de medidas elétricas da saliva de usuários de cigarro eletrônico

Abstract

The electronic cigarette has became a widely used device. While some studies suggest it may serve as a harm reduction tool for conventional cigarett users, its effects on human health remain inadequately understood. The aim of the present study was to characterize salivary electrical patterns among electronic cigarette users through pH and electrochemical measurements, comparing them to conventional cigarette smokers and non-smokers (controls). A total of 52 volunteers participated in the study, divided into three groups: 21 electronic cigarette users, 14 conventional cigarette smokers, and 17 non-smokers. All samples were analyzed for pH using a Mettler Toledo potentiometer and for electrochemical measurements using a HIOKI IM3570 impedance analyzer. Among electronic cigarette users, a reduction in pH and an increase in electrical conductivity were observed when compared to non-users, although without statistical significance. Among conventional cigarette smokers, a significant reduction in pH was found when compared to both electronic cigarette users and non-smokers, as well as an increase in electrical conductivity compared to non-users, although without statistical significance. Electrical conductivity was similarly altered in both electronic and conventional cigarette users. These findings suggest that both types of cigarettes may alter saliva, contributing to an oral environment more susceptible to the development of complications. Thus, the electrical pattern of these user’s saliva can compromisse oral health. However, further investigations are needed, with larger samples and more comprehensive analyses, to deepen the understanding of these effects.