Are vapes worse than cigarettes?

Vaping is far less harmful than smoking, but its rise has sparked debates about whether it is a safer alternative to smoking. While traditional cigarettes release thousands of harmful chemicals during combustion, vaping does not involve burning tobacco. Extensive research has been conducted on vaping’s effects, but studies are ongoing and expected to provide more insights by 2025, helping to fully understand its long-term implications.

According to a 2015 report by Public Health England (PHE), vaping is approximately 95% less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes. This significant reduction in harm is attributed to the absence of harmful chemicals released during the combustion of tobacco, which are responsible for numerous serious diseases. While vaping is not risk-free, PHE and other health organisations suggest that fully switching from smoking to vaping can provide substantial health benefits.

Health comparisons: vapes vs. cigarettes

Is smoking vape worse?

The aerosols inhaled during vaping can irritate the lungs and potentially lead to respiratory issues. While vaping may not cause the same level of lung damage as smoking, it is not risk-free. Some studies suggest that certain chemicals in vape liquids, such as propylene glycol and flavouring agents, can contribute to lung inflammation and irritation.

A notable concern has been the emergence of vaping-related lung injuries, such as EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping-associated lung injury). Most EVALI cases were linked to illicit THC-containing vape products, but this highlights that vaping can have serious health consequences, especially when the source of the vape liquid is unclear.

Vaping and lung health

Does vaping cause lung damage?

Addiction and gateway concerns

Is vaping addictive?

Most vape liquids contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance that affects brain chemistry by stimulating the release of dopamine. This makes vaping addictive, particularly for younger users whose brains are still developing. Regular use can lead to dependence, making it difficult to quit.
The rapid rise of vaping among teenagers is especially concerning, as early exposure to nicotine can increase the likelihood of long-term addiction and may have negative effects on brain development.

Can vaping lead to smoking cigarettes?

Research indicates that teens and young adults who vape are more likely to transition to smoking traditional cigarettes later. Nicotine addiction plays a significant role in this progression, as it increases the likelihood of experimenting with other nicotine products. Additionally, social influences and accessibility of cigarettes may contribute to this shift.

However, it is important to note that vaping was originally designed as a smoking cessation tool for adults. For many smokers, vaping has been a helpful alternative for reducing or eliminating traditional cigarette use. The connection between vaping and smoking initiation largely depends on individual circumstances and the extent of nicotine dependency.

Broader health concerns

In addition to the specific risks mentioned above, there are several other health concerns associated with vaping:

Cardiovascular risks: Nicotine raises heart rate and blood pressure, which may contribute to cardiovascular disease over time.
Immune system effects: Vaping may weaken the respiratory immune system, making users more susceptible to infections.
Mental health impacts: Nicotine dependency can influence mental health, especially when used to cope with stress or anxiety.

While vaping is generally considered less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes, it is not without significant risks. Vaping can cause lung irritation, lead to nicotine addiction, and potentially serve as a gateway to smoking cigarettes for young users. The lack of long-term data on vaping’s health effects further complicates its safety profile.

For those seeking to quit smoking, vaping may be a less harmful alternative, but non-smokers and teenagers are strongly advised against starting the habit. Public awareness and regulation are crucial in addressing the health challenges posed by vaping.