The potential health risks of vaping continue to spark debate as new research challenges the perception of it being a safer alternative to smoking. A recent study presented at the European Respiratory Society’s (ERS) conference highlights the detrimental effects of vaping on young people’s lung health, drawing comparisons to traditional smoking. This study adds to a growing body of evidence that questions the safety of e-cigarettes and underscores the need for stringent public health policies.

Study Findings: Vaping vs. Smoking

The research conducted by Dr. Azmy Faisal and colleagues from Manchester Metropolitan University involved 60 participants in their 20s, divided equally among non-smokers, vapers, and smokers. Using a static exercise bike, the study assessed lung capacity and exercise performance, revealing that both vapers and smokers exhibited significantly reduced fitness levels compared to non-smokers.

Participants who vaped had an average peak exercise capacity of 186 watts, closely resembling smokers at 182 watts, while non-smokers showed a higher capacity of 226 watts. Oxygen intake was also compromised, with vapers and smokers recording 2.7 litres and 2.6 litres per minute, respectively, compared to 3 litres among those who neither smoked nor vaped. These findings suggest that vaping harms lung function similarly to traditional smoking, contradicting the belief that it is a healthier alternative.

Further assessments showed that both vapers and smokers had impaired blood vessel function, were more out of breath, and experienced increased muscle fatigue, evidenced by higher blood lactate levels, even before reaching maximum exercise levels.

Rise of Vaping Among Young People

Vaping has seen a significant rise among young people in recent years. In Britain, the proportion of 11 to 17-year-olds who vape skyrocketed from 1.3% in 2014 to 7.6%. This increase parallels a steady climb in adult vapers from 4.2% to 11% during the same period, with many seeking to quit smoking through vaping.

Health Risks and Toxicity Concerns

Medical research indicates that vaping might increase cancer risk by altering DNA and potentially harm the brain and vital organs due to toxic metals like lead and uranium found in e-cigarette aerosols and liquids. Dr. Filippos Filippidis of Imperial College London emphasises the need for awareness among healthcare professionals and policymakers concerning vaping’s health risks.

Implications for Public Health Policy

The growing evidence of vaping’s adverse health effects necessitates a robust public health response. The UK government has pledged to address the “irresponsible” marketing of vapes to children and gradually eliminate smoking through legislative measures. This includes the tobacco and vapes bill aimed at curbing youth exposure and encouraging cessation.

The findings presented at the ERS conference highlight the urgency for regulatory actions to mitigate the health risks associated with vaping, particularly among young people. As the debate around vaping’s safety continues, these insights provide critical data for shaping effective public health strategies.

Source: The Guardian