Vaping and Your Health: Separating Fact from Fiction

Vaping has become increasingly popular in recent years, but many people still have questions about its impact on health. There are a lot of opinions and rumours surrounding vaping, so it's important to separate fact from fiction when it comes to the potential health effects of this activity.

Fact: Vaping is Less Harmful than Smoking

One of the main reasons why people turn to vaping is to quit smoking. According to an expert independent evidence review published by Public Health England (PHE), e-cigarettes are around 95% less harmful than traditional cigarettes. This is because e-cigarettes do not contain tobacco, which is responsible for many of the harmful chemicals and carcinogens in cigarettes.

Fact: Vaping Can Help You Quit Smoking

Many people turn to vaping as a way to quit smoking. According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, e-cigarettes were more effective at helping smokers quit than traditional nicotine replacement therapy, such as gum or patches.

Fiction: Vaping is a Gateway to Smoking

There is some concern that vaping may lead to smoking, especially among young people. However, research has not found a direct link between vaping and smoking. In fact, some studies have found that e-cigarette use among young people is associated with a decreased likelihood of smoking.

Fact: Second hand Vapour is Less Harmful than Second hand Smoke

Second hand smoke is a well-known health hazard, but what about second hand vapour? While e-cigarette vapour does contain chemicals, it is much less harmful than second hand smoke. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Science, Processes & Impacts found that the levels of harmful chemicals in e-cigarette vapour were significantly lower than those in cigarette smoke.

Fiction: Vaping Causes Popcorn Lung

One of the biggest myths surrounding vaping is that it can cause a condition called "popcorn lung." This condition, also known as bronchiolitis obliterans, is caused by exposure to a chemical called diacetyl, which is used to add a buttery flavour to some e-liquids. However, diacetyl is banned as an ingredient from e-cigarettes and e-liquids in the UK so there’s no risk there.

Fact: Vaping involves inhaling vapour produced by an electronic cigarette, also known as an e-cigarette.

The vapour is created by heating a liquid, or e-juice, which typically contains a combination of nicotine, flavourings, and other chemicals. Unlike traditional cigarettes, e-cigarettes do not contain tobacco and do not produce smoke, which is why they are touted as a safer alternative.

In conclusion, vaping is much less harmful than smoking. It can be an effective tool for quitting smoking and is less harmful to those around you than second hand smoke. It's important to separate fact from fiction when it comes to the potential health effects of vaping and to make informed decisions about your own health.

Join the millions who have already made the switch and enjoy the benefits of a smoke-free lifestyle.