The impact of e-cigarette use on cognitive function, emotional intelligence, and dementia risk in adolescents and young adults

The increasing prevalence of e-cigarette use among adolescents and young adults has raised concerns about its potential association with cognitive and behavioral functions. While nicotine exposure is known to affect brain development, its associations with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms, emotional intelligence (EQ), and dementia risk remain unclear. This study primarily examined the association between e-cigarette use and cognitive impairment assessed by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Secondary analyses explored associations with ADHD symptom tendencies and emotional intelligence. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in Lat Krabang District, Bangkok, Thailand, with 232 participants aged 18-25 years, equally divided into e-cigarette users (n = 116) and non-smokers (n = 116). Data were collected using the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1, 18 items), the Emotional Quotient Test, and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Statistical analyses compared cognitive function, EQ levels, and dementia risk between the two groups. No significant differences were found in ADHD symptom tendencies and EQ levels between e-cigarette users and non-smokers. However, e-cigarette users exhibited a significantly higher proportion of dementia risk compared to non-smokers. Notably, individuals with no intention to quit within one month had a sixfold increased dementia risk, while those without plans to quit within six months had a fourfold increased risk. No other personal factors significantly influenced dementia risk. While e-cigarette use was not significantly associated with ADHD symptom tendencies or EQ levels, it was associated with a higher likelihood of dementia risk. These findings suggest potential neurocognitive concerns related to e-cigarette use; however, causal inferences cannot be made due to the cross-sectional design. Further longitudinal studies are warranted to clarify these relationships.