The dangers of vaping are becoming increasingly evident as experts warn of its potential long-term health impacts. While e-cigarettes have been marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, new research highlights troubling parallels between their effects on users and those of traditional cigarettes. Dr Maxime Boidin, heading a pioneering study at Manchester Metropolitan University, has uncovered alarming evidence linking vaping to harmful impacts on blood vessels, which could lead to cardiovascular issues and even cognitive disorders like dementia.

As Dr Thomas Eissenberg from Virginia Commonwealth University explains, “Your lungs aren’t meant to deal with the constant challenge of non-air that people are putting into them—sometimes as many as 200 puffs a day—day after day, week after week, year after year”. This highlights the strain vaping places on the respiratory system, even for those who believe it to be a safer alternative. (Source)

The risks of e-cigarettes extend beyond adults trying to quit smoking. Alarmingly, a significant number of young people are adopting the habit, with 18% of 11-to-17-year-olds in the UK admitting to trying vaping. Schools across Greater Manchester are experiencing a surge in nicotine addiction among students, with some requiring medical intervention. For instance, a Newman RC College student sought exam breaks to vape, while others have been hospitalised after using illicit, high-nicotine vapes. These trends reflect that what began as a smoking cessation tool has inadvertently become a gateway to dependency for many, including children.

How Vaping Impacts Everyday Life

Vaping has spread beyond adults trying to quit smoking. For many, it has become a disruptive presence in daily life. Suzie Michelle, a former smoker, describes feeling trapped in a familiar cycle of dependency despite making the switch to vaping. She experiences health concerns like sore throats and continued cravings, pointing to how vaping often replaces, rather than resolves, nicotine addiction.

Even occasional vapers report facing alarming side effects. Jack Connor from Chorlton recalls incidents of random shortness of breath during everyday activities like driving, despite noticing no issues when exercising. The easy availability and socially acceptable nature of vaping make it harder to control, especially with disposable vapes often featuring sweet, enticing flavours. Experts warn that such designs make vaping more accessible to younger audiences, promoting a habit that can easily escalate into addiction.

The Risks of E-Cigarettes for Public Health

The rise in disposable vapes—frequently marketed with child-friendly branding—has made vaping more socially acceptable. However, experts argue the ease of use accelerates dependency, as vapes encourage continuous nicotine consumption. For teenagers, many of whom have never smoked, vaping becomes a harmful introduction to nicotine, with mental and physical health repercussions. Schools report increases in children developing serious symptoms, while hospitals have treated young people suffering collapsed lungs or severe reactions from vaping harmful chemicals.

Why Vaping is More Dangerous Than You Think

Vaping carries significant dangers that are becoming increasingly clear. While marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, research shows it can damage blood vessels, impair blood flow, and increase the risk of heart disease and cognitive issues like dementia. The nicotine, chemicals, and metals in e-cigarettes pose serious health risks, with long-term effects still unknown.

Young people are particularly vulnerable, with many drawn to vaping by sweet flavours and flashy packaging. This early exposure to nicotine can lead to addiction, mental health struggles, and lung damage. Schools report students so dependent on vaping that it disrupts their lives, with some even requiring medical attention.

The ease and social acceptability of vaping make it even more harmful, as it encourages continuous use. Without stricter regulations and better awareness, vaping could spark a major health crisis in the future.

Source: Manchester Evening News