Electronic Cigarette Use and the Diagnosis of Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer Among United States Adults

Introduction Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use has many potential effects, including damage to the skin. Limited research has assessed e-cigarette use with the incidence of nonmelanoma skin cancer. The current study was conducted to determine if a relationship exists between nonmelanoma skin cancer diagnosis and e-cigarette use among US adults. Methods Data from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) were used to assess if a relationship exists between e-cigarette use and the diagnosis of nonmelanoma skin cancer. Data within the sample adult files for years 2014 through 2018, along with the adult cancer file for the year 2015, were analyzed. Participants who reported having a diagnosis of nonmelanoma skin cancer were included. Participants who reported never being diagnosed with any type of cancer were included as a comparison group. Results Males and those of older age were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with nonmelanoma skin cancer compared to females and younger adults. Cigarette use was significantly associated with an increased risk of nonmelanoma skin cancer. There was no relationship between e-cigarette use and diagnosis of nonmelanoma skin cancer. Conclusions Although the current study did not find an association between e-cigarette use and nonmelanoma skin cancer diagnosis, a longer study period and larger sample size may more clearly determine if an association exists.