The study titled “Smokers making a quit attempt using e-cigarettes with or without nicotine or prescription nicotine replacement therapy: Impact on cardiovascular function (ISME-NRT) – a study protocol,” aims to look at the benefits and risks of using e-cigarettes in order to quit smoking. The researchers are focusing on cardiovascular health, more specifically looking at the effect that vapour has on small veins and arteries.

Preliminary findings have so far indicated that the participants randomly allocated to the e-cigarette groups, tend to be more successful at quitting smoking and remaining abstinent.
The participants of this study are split into three groups: one using nicotine rich e-cigarettes, another which is given nicotine-free e-cigarettes, and a third group which is provided with nicotine replacement therapy with the support of Sheffield’s stop smoking services. In the meantime, all participants will be receiving an identical type of behavioural stop-smoking support and their progress will be monitored over a six-month period.

During a later stage of the research process, the researchers will be measuring the participants’ cholesterol levels, the amount of carbon monoxide in their breath, and the functioning of their small arteries and veins. Additionally, participants will be assessed for their nicotine dependence.

In the meantime, preliminary findings have so far indicated that the participants randomly allocated to the e-cigarette groups tend to be more successful at quitting smoking and remaining abstinent. These findings go inline with previous research. However to ensure the reliability of these findings, the researchers will be dividing participants in each group between those who are successful and those who are not, in order to analyze the reasons why the latter group didn’t complete their attempt.

A call for more participants

Lead study author Markos Klonizakis said that more participants are still needed for this study. Therefore, anyone interested in participating who is willing to give up smoking and follow the assigned programme, may contact the research team on 0114 2254312 or by email: heartresearchuk@shu.ac.uk

Read Further: MedicalXpress

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