New Study Links E Cigarette Use to Increased Risk of COPD and Hypertension Increased risk of COPD observed in individuals using e cigarette: Study E cigarette use associated with increased risk of developing COPD, chronic bronchitis, emphysema and asthma. Thoracic and Sleep Group Queensland E Cigarettes Linked to COPD and Hypertension E cigarettes, vapes, juul, extwhatever you call them, they are not a better alternative to smoking. They still contain toxic chemicals that cause severe lung diseases. Start your quit plan today by call