Prevalence of Adulthood Secondhand Cigarette, Cannabis Smoke, and Electronic Cigarette Vapor Exposure in Hidradenitis Suppurativa Patients

Summary: Objective: To assess the prevalence of secondhand exposure to cigarette smoke, cannabis smoke, and electronic cigarette vapor among patients with Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). Methods: A one-time, in-person survey was conducted with HS patients at the UNC Dermatology Department. Results: Of 127 respondents (100% response rate), 41.7% reported regular adult exposure to secondhand cigarette smoke, 30.7% to cannabis smoke, and 22.0% to e-cigarette vapor. Exposure commonly occurred at home, in vehicles, or public spaces. Average exposure durations were 13.6 years for cigarette smoke, 9.6 years for cannabis smoke, and 3.7 years for e-cigarette vapor. Participants were typically exposed to 8.4 cigarettes, 2.9 cannabis joints/blunts, or 2.7 e-cigarette users during a typical exposure instance, often on a daily or weekly basis. The mean exposure duration was 3.3 hours for cigarette smoke, 1.9 hours for cannabis smoke, and 3.1 hours for e-cigarette vapor. Exposure frequently occurred within 1-5 feet of 3.2 cigarette users, 2.9 cannabis users, or 2.7 e-cigarette users. Conclusion: Secondhand smoke exposure, particularly from cigarettes, is prevalent among HS patients, with significant duration and frequency. Cannabis smoke and e-cigarette vapor exposure were less common but exhibited similar exposure patterns among affected individuals.