We are in a period where vaping has become an established method of traditional tobacco smoking cessation.
Whilst some time ago, the risks of vaping were theoretical and largely unknown, they have now been researched through numerous scientific and experiential studies.
This article aims to uncover contemporary understandings of vaping to address the question – is vaping safe? We will discuss the latest points of view and identify some authoritative sources of information on vaping.
Perceptions
Many experts consider vaping to be a safer alternative to smoking, stating that although not entirely harm-free, e-cigarettes contain only a fraction of the harmful chemicals that traditional tobacco cigarettes release. In fact, a report commissioned by Public Health England concluded that ‘vaping poses a small fraction of the risks of smoking’ in the short and medium-term use.
The British Heart Foundation mentions a study from the University of Dundee they funded looking into the effect of vaping on blood vessels: ‘Within just one month of switching tobacco for electronic cigarettes, measures of blood vessel health, including blood pressure and stiffness of their arteries, had started to improve’.
However, they do state that this does not mean vaping is entirely safe and that more research is needed for longer-term use, but it could be a useful tool in smoking cessation.
Vapes are now advocated by organisations such as the National Health Service as ‘one of the most effective tools for quitting smoking ’. This advocacy is often balanced with the notion that it should only be started as a means of quitting smoking altogether and not started in any other case.
Sometimes, incorrect perceptions can be the cause of harm. People must have the correct information at hand to make decisions in the interest of their health. For instance, a study by the University College London (UCL) in 2024 found that most smokers think vaping is at least as harmful as smoking. This misunderstanding coincides with the youthful increase in the uptake of vaping.
Reality
Studies are showing that vaping is considered substantially safer than smoking tobacco due to the absence of complex and dangerous chemicals that lead to disease. Although vaping is considered safer, it is not likely to be completely risk-free, especially for people who have never smoked. There are short-term and longer-term side effects, with the latter less well known.
Short-term Effects
Short-term side effects are common and can be easily managed. These include:
Irritation to the throat and mouth
Dry mouth and throat
Coughing
Headaches
Shortness of breath
These short-term side effects can usually be managed in consultation with a GP, vaping provider or smoking cessation service so that vaping can continue to substitute smoking. Strategies such as changing the vaping pattern may help.
Long-term Effects
To date, very few studies have taken place regarding the longer-term effects of vaping. A report titled ‘Nicotine vaping in England: an evidence update including health risks and perceptions, 2022 ’ looked at biomarkers associated with the development of disease.
Early research suggests that switching from smoking to exclusive vaping leads to significant reductions in exposure to harmful substances. While nicotine exposure remains similar, the reduction in exposure to other harmful constituents suggests potential health benefits for smokers who switch completely.
However, the report emphasises the need for ongoing research, particularly in the area of biomarkers of potential harm, to fully understand long-term health implications. It is certainly not recommended that non-smokers take up vaping.
One myth common among smokers is that vaping is just as harmful as smoking. Nicotine, although addictive, is relatively harmless. It is the other chemicals from smoking that cause lung damage, cardiovascular risks and other diseases.
Youth Problem
One major concern with vaping has been the engagement of young people, attracting public attention and political action. Although the prevalence among young people is low, it is increasing. Research has shown that although the majority who vape are either current or former smokers, the danger is that unless deterrents are in place, more young people may become addicted to nicotine and convert to cigarettes, especially in a peer-pressured environment.
Marketing & Restrictions
Several new laws are being introduced through The Tobacco and Vapes Bill to help curb the uptake of vaping and smoking in the youth. This includes restrictions on advertising and selling, strong enforcement laws, the ban on single-use vapes and regulation of flavours so that vapes are less attractive.
We can, therefore, expect the nicotine e-liquid for refillable e-cigarettes to play a more significant role in the vaping journey than the environmentally damaging single-use vapes. Alongside ‘give it a try’, ‘liking the flavours’ is one of the most common reasons for vaping by those who have never smoked or only tried smoking.
Smoking Statistics
Smoking remains a significant concern to our Government, mainly because of the health implications and the cost to our National Health Service. An October 2024 smoking profile update for England found that the current smoking prevalence for 2023 sat at 11.6%. This represents a continued reduction from 2011 when the prevalence was 19.8%.
Moving Forward
Vaping will continue to play a significant role in helping individuals move away from the health risks associated with smoking. The health costs, estimated as being £21.8 billion a year, and suffering from smoking are too big to ignore.
Through ‘The Tobacco and Vapes Bill’, there is a clear direction to phase out the sale of tobacco products and control vaping to ensure the young are protected. Medical research and monitoring will continue globally to understand the long-term risks, for example, during pregnancy.
Given the significantly reduced risks that vaping presents, it is highly likely to continue to be a strategic tool in smoking cessation. If you are considering giving up smoking, getting support from your GP, friends and family and smoking cessation services can be a great place to start.