Vaping and Health: Understanding the Risks and Implications

As vaping becomes increasingly widespread, particularly among younger populations, it is imperative that we understand the health risks associated with this habit. Although vaping is generally marketed as a healthier alternative to smoking cigarettes or other traditional methods, it is not risk free, and the potential long-term effects of using these products remain unclear.1. Chemical Exposure and Respiratory Health An obvious concern of vaping is exposure to chemicals that may be harmful to your health. E-cigarettes and disposable vapes such as the Bang King 15K and the RandM Tornado 9000 contain a cocktail of different chemicals, including nicotine, flavorings and solvents. These chemicals can combine to form harmful vapors when heated, including formaldehyde, which is a known carcinogen. Vaping can also cause damage to your lung health, increasing the risk of conditions such as bronchiolitis obliterans (popcorn lung) as well as exacerbating other asthma-related issues.2. Nicotine Addiction and Cardiovascular Risk Nicotine is a highly addictive substance found in most e-cigarettes. It can cause addiction to develop quickly and can have a number of negative effects on cardiovascular health. Nicotine intake is associated with an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. These factors can increase the risk for heart attacks and strokes, particularly in patients who have already been diagnosed with heart disease. For young users who are still developing, nicotine can alter the way that neural pathways are formed, and can potentially change the very makeup of the brain. This may contribute to a greater tendency to develop an addiction, or increase the risk that the person will develop an addiction to another type of substance in the future.3. Impact on Youth The accessibility and popularity of disposable vapes have led to a rapid increase in usage among teenagers and young adults. These products are of particular concern, as exposure to nicotine at an early age can lead to a lifetime of addiction. In addition to increased cancer risks, there is evidence that youth who vape are more likely to make the transition to smoking traditional cigarettes as they get older, exponentially increasing potential harmful health effects on the body.4. Regulatory and Safety Concerns Though many countries have now set regulations on vaping devices, these are prone to variation due to the hundreds of different types of vaping and smoking devices readily available to the public. Additionally, there is lesser control over the manufacturing of these products, and the disclosure of individual ingredients by the manufacturers. Unlike traditional tobacco products, there are no regulations forcing vaping products to inform about the chemicals used in the product, which can vary from supplier to supplier.5. Healthier Alternatives For smokers looking to quit, there are a number of healthier and more effective alternatives to vaping. Nicotine replacement therapies (NRT), such as patches, gum and lozenges, are proven to cut nicotine cravings and withdraw symptoms. There are behavioural therapies and support groups available, as well. It can be seen that while vaping may not be as harmful as smoking cigarettes, it is not safe either. The public and potential vapers need to be made aware of the dangers of e-cigarettes, as do others. Health professionals and public health committees must, therefore, continue to monitor what the impacts of vaping are.