BLOGGING THE VIEW: 5 facts you should know about vaping

An American teen recently developed ‘popcorn lung’ (bronchiolitis obliterans), a rare, irreversible lung disease linked to long-term vaping.

It damages small airways, causing coughing, wheezing, fatigue and breathlessness.

The name comes from cases in the early 2000s when microwave popcorn factory workers developed similar symptoms after inhaling diacetyl, a buttery flavouring also found in some vape products.

This case underscores the growing concern around the rise of vaping which, for the most part, has replaced – and possibly even increased – the number of ‘smokers’, many of whom are teenagers.

While vapes don’t contain tobacco, this World No-Tobacco Day, observed annually on 31 May, it’s worth looking at the next-biggest threat to lung health.

1. Vaping is less harmful than smoking – but still dangerous

It’s true that e-cigarettes don’t contain the same 7 000 toxic chemicals found in regular cigarettes, but that doesn’t make them safe. Vapes heat nicotine along with flavourings and other chemicals to create an aerosol you inhale. Research shows that this vapour contains potentially harmful substances, including:

· Heavy metals
· Pesticides
· Flavourings linked to respiratory irritation
· Vitamin E acetate (found in many THC-containing vapes and linked to lung injuries)

2. Vaping harms your heart and lungs

Nicotine, the primary addictive substance in both cigarettes and vapes, is a stimulant that raises blood pressure, spikes adrenaline and increases the risk of heart attacks.

Emerging data also shows:

· A link between vaping and chronic lung disease
· Worsening of conditions like asthma
· Potential for cardiovascular disease, especially among those who both vape and smoke
· Other risks including sleep issues and sexual dysfunction in men

3. Vaping is addictive – sometimes more than smoking

Nicotine can be as addictive as heroin or cocaine. What’s worse, vapers often consume even more nicotine by using high-strength cartridges or increasing the voltage on their devices. This addiction not only makes it harder to quit but can also lead to:

· Withdrawal symptoms
· Increased anxiety and depression
· Cravings that interfere with focus and mood

4. Vaping isn’t the solution to quit smoking

Although some promote vaping as a quit-smoking tool, it’s not approved for smoking cessation. In fact, studies show many people who use vapes to quit end up using both cigarettes and e-cigarettes. Safer alternatives include:

· Nicotine patches and gum
· Behavioural therapy
· Prescription medications

5. It’s getting the youth hooked

Vaping is the most popular tobacco product among teens. In 2021, over 2 million American middle and high school students used vapes, 80% of whom preferred flavoured products. Young people are especially vulnerable because:

· Vaping seems ‘less harmful’
· Devices are discreet and easy to hide
· Flavoured options (like mango, mint and cotton candy) are enticing
· Nicotine affects the developing brain, reducing attention span, memory and impulse control — changes that can be permanent
· Colourful marketing attracts a younger audience

Whether you’re vaping, smoking, or thinking about trying either, it’s important to know the facts. Vaping isn’t harmless, especially for youth and non-smokers. If you’re vaping, consider stopping today!

SOURCES:
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org
https://scitechdaily.com

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