Emerging Health Crisis: E-cigarette Linked to Pneumonia in Vietnam

Recently, according to a report by Vietnam's Law and Life newspaper, Dong Qua Province's Duoc Med Hospital has recently admitted several young patients, including middle school and high school students, who did not have chronic illnesses but were hospitalized for treatment due to pneumonia. It is noteworthy that the majority of these cases are linked to the use of e-cigarettes.

The Shoushou Province Hospital has reported that one of their cases involves a 16-year-old boy who sought medical attention due to chest pain, coughing up phlegm, and difficulty breathing during exertion. Inquiring about his medical history, the patient disclosed that he had recently tried using an e-cigarette with friends. He believed that e-cigarettes posed lower risks compared to traditional cigarettes and had been persuaded by his friend to give it a try.

After blood and phlegm tests, as well as a chest CT scan, the results revealed a widespread deep infection in the lower region of the man's right lung. Doctors have tentatively identified the origin of the pneumonia as an e-cigarette.

Medical expert Pei Manqiang (Bùi Mạnh Cường) stated, "The clinical course of this patient is incredibly complex. Despite being young and without any underlying conditions, the lung lesions are severe, resembling those found in elderly individuals. We have implemented treatment measures to the best of our ability in order to preserve the patient's lung function.

Doctors warn that e-cigarettes contain numerous harmful substances and long-term use can have an impact on health. E-cigarettes heat e-liquid, which is then converted into gas and inhaled by users, potentially leading to various health problems such as nausea, chest tightness, coughing, high blood pressure, and increased heart rate.