Evali cases reported among young adults in Finland with rising concerns over vaping risks

Several cases of vaping-associated lung injuries, known as EVALI, have been reported in Finland. The first case was highlighted earlier this spring, and additional instances have since been identified, according to an inquiry by Yle to wellness regions nationwide. Cases have been confirmed in areas including North Ostrobothnia and Satakunta, where a few young men have been treated for suspected vape-related lung damage. However, Satasairaala has noted that there is no specific EVALI testing available, making definitive confirmation difficult.

Tuula Vasankari, a lung disease specialist at the University of Turku, has received reports of EVALI cases involving young adults who had been daily vape users for an extended period. Other wellness regions, such as Varsinais-Suomi and Kanta-Häme, have reported possible sporadic cases, although they remain unrecorded.

Symptoms can resemble pneumonia and may cause hospitalization due to respiratory failure, particularly in middle-aged patients. Diagnosing EVALI requires precise differential diagnostics, according to Terttu Harju, a pulmonary doctor at Oulu University Hospital. If no other cause is found and vaping is a clear antecedent, it can be concluded that the injury is vape-related.

EVALI, an acronym for electronic cigarette or vaping associated lung injury, was first identified in the United States in 2019. Symptoms include cough, shortness of breath, nausea, and fever. Treatments are similar to those for other lung injuries, focusing on supporting lung function and managing inflammation, but the recovery process can be slow and may leave lasting damage.

Experts emphasize that EVALI is still rare in Finland, but concerns about the long-term effects of vaping practices are growing, with indications that they could initiate inflammatory processes in the lungs.