Mucociliary clearance (MCC) is an essential defense mechanism of the respiratory system, helping to remove mucus and trapped particles from the airways. Tobacco smoking impairs this process, but avoiding smoke from combustible cigarettes can restore MCC function.
The effects of switching to less harmful, combustion-free tobacco products like e-cigarettes (ECs) and heated tobacco products (HTPs) on MCC are not yet fully understood, prompting ongoing research into their health impacts.