Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Research Protocols
Date Submitted: Jan 12, 2024
Date Accepted: Feb 1, 2024
Effects of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems Substitution on Body Weight Status: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
ABSTRACT
Background:
Weight gain following smoking cessation is a well-documented concern, often attributed to the absence of nicotine's metabolic influence. The adoption of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) has been used to achieve smoking cessation, with claims of aiding weight control. However, existing reviews present conflicting conclusions on ENDS' impact on weight status, necessitating a rigorous evaluation.
Objective:
We aim to conduct a systematic review with meta-analysis to assess the actual impact of ENDS on weight status in individuals who have ceased or reduced conventional smoking. The primary goal is to provide clinicians with evidence-based insights into the potential effects of ENDS use as a smoking substitute on weight control.
Methods:
Adhering to PRISMA-P guidelines, our systematic review will analyze human clinical studies using JBI quality assessment tools and a bias checklist. Searches will include PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library, covering the period from 2010 to January, 2024. A gray literature search and supplementary searches will be performed. Data will be extracted independently by two reviewers, and quality assessments will be conducted concurrently. Meta-analysis and subgroup analyses are planned.
Results:
The protocol has been registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023494974) and the entire systematic review is expected to be completed by April 2024. The main goal of this review is to retrieve all current human research studies investigating the influence of ENDS on weight management among individuals who have quit or reduced smoking. Furthermore, the review will assess the quality of these studies and examine potential biases to identify the most dependable evidence available. Dissemination strategies will include traditional journal publication, social media announcements, and a white paper. The latter, available for download and distributed at conferences, aims to reach a broad audience, including clinicians and ENDS users.
Conclusions:
The review will address the importance of informing healthcare professionals and patients about the current and robust evidence regarding the effects of transitioning to ENDS for smoking cessation on weight status. Clinical Trial: PROSPERO CRD42023494974
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