Novel Pulmonary Imaging of Lung Structure and Function in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic E-cigarette Smokers

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are conducting a 5-year study to examine how vaping with e-cigarettes affects lung health over time. The study compares lung function and structure between people who vape e-cigarettes, including those who have never smoked traditional cigarettes and those who have, and a control group of people who have never smoked either. This research uses advanced imaging and testing to better understand the long-term impact of e-cigarette use on lung health. Participants will attend multiple visits over five years, including initial screening and consent, followed by assessments at 12 weeks, 24 weeks, 48 weeks, and annually up to 5 years. Tests include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with hyperpolarized xenon-129 gas, computed tomography (CT) scans, pulmonary function tests before and after bronchodilator use, exercise capacity evaluations, blood and sputum analyses, and health questionnaires. Some visits involve in-person testing, while one visit consists of a telephone health update. During the study, participants will have lung health monitored through detailed imaging, lung function tests, exercise testing, and questionnaires. Researchers will assess changes in lung structure, function, respiratory symptoms, and exercise capacity. Data collection focuses on chronic effects by scheduling tests at least four hours after last vaping or smoking. The study aims to identify any abnormalities in lung health related to e-cigarette use compared to non-smokers, with ongoing safety and health monitoring throughout the five-year period.

Novel Pulmonary Imaging of Lung Structure and Function in E-cigarette Smokers