Objective:

To examine the effects of e-cigarettes on oral cancer specifically, data availability, and the development of targeted cancer prevention policies.

Key Findings:

• E-cigarettes release harmful chemicals and are not risk-free despite being marketed as safer alternatives.
• Youth e-cigarette usage has significantly increased, with 1.63 million students reporting use in 2024, including 410,000 middle school students.
• E-cigarettes can alter the oral microbiome and induce DNA damage in oral cells, raising concerns for oral cancer.
• There is a lack of awareness among dental professionals regarding the risks associated with e-cigarettes, which may hinder prevention efforts.

Interpretation:

E-cigarettes pose significant health risks, particularly to adolescents, and their impact on oral health and cancer risk requires urgent attention and further research to inform effective prevention strategies.

Limitations:

• Limited studies on the long-term effects of e-cigarettes on oral health, particularly regarding specific carcinogenic pathways.
• Insufficient awareness among healthcare professionals regarding the risks of e-cigarettes, which may affect patient education and prevention efforts.

Conclusion:

E-cigarettes are not a safe alternative to traditional smoking; comprehensive education and policy measures are urgently needed to mitigate their use among youth and protect public health.