Countless debates and discussions can be had regarding the health risks of smoking versus vaping. Both substances have their own set of pros and cons, but which is more dangerous? In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at the health effects associated with vaping and smoking so that you can decide whether either practice is proper for you.
Whether you’ve recently been considering switching from cigarettes to e-cigarettes or vice versa, this guide provides evidence-based insight into how these two methods can impact your life, mainly regarding your physical well-being.
An Overview of Both Vaping and Smoking
In recent years, an ongoing debate has emerged regarding vaping and smoking, primarily due to the hazardous effect both practices can have on a person’s health. While smoking has existed for centuries, vaping is a relatively new phenomenon that has gained immense popularity quickly. Both activities involve inhaling some form of substance, tobacco or e-liquid.
Vaping is said to be a safer alternative to smoking due to the lack of combustion involved, but the long-term effects of vaping have yet to be fully understood. Despite the benefits of switching to vaping, the potential risks still raise concerns, and both practices continue to ignite a plethora of opinions amongst healthcare professionals and the general public alike. Vapeshack has conducted several studies to provide an overview of the potential health repercussions of vaping and smoking.
The Effect of Nicotine on Health
One of the main components of vaping and smoking is nicotine, a substance known to have several adverse effects on one’s health. Nicotine is an addictive chemical found in tobacco which causes a person to become increasingly dependent on the drug. It can cause harm to both adults and children, increasing blood pressure and heart rate and posing a risk for cancer or other diseases.
When smoking, nicotine is inhaled in the form of smoke that can damage the lungs and other organs in the body. On the other hand, nicotine is inhaled as a vapour, which reduces the risk of potential health risks compared to smoking.
The Risks and Benefits of Vaping vs. Smoking
Now that we’ve examined the effects of nicotine on a person’s health, it is essential to consider how vaping and smoking compare in terms of long-term health risks.
When comparing the two practices side-by-side, it is evident that smoking has an array of negative impacts on both physical and mental health. The smoke produced from cigarettes contains numerous toxins and carcinogenic substances such as tar, carbon monoxide and other chemicals that can damage a person’s lungs and heart. In contrast, most e-cigarettes contain only nicotine or a combination of nicotine and other chemicals in propylene glycol form, which are far less harmful than those contained in tobacco smoke.
Studies also indicate that switching from smoking to vaping can significantly reduce the risk of cancer, respiratory diseases and other smoking-related illnesses. Additionally, since e-cigarettes do not produce smoke, there is a much lower risk of secondhand smoke exposure, which can be especially beneficial for those with asthma or other lung conditions.
While vaping has some benefits, it is essential to note that some potential risks are still associated with its use. For instance, nicotine can be highly addictive and have various adverse effects on one’s health. Additionally, since e-cigarettes are relatively new in the market, more research needs to be conducted to assess the long-term risks associated with their use.
Chemical Composition & Side Effects
In addition to the short-term effects of nicotine, it is essential to consider the chemical composition of both vaping and smoking. When cigarettes are smoked, they produce a myriad of toxic compounds that can cause harm to one’s health. The most notable chemicals include tar, carbon monoxide and other carcinogenic substances such as benzo[a]pyrene.
In contrast, most e-cigarette liquids contain only nicotine or a combination of other chemicals, such as propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin. Furthermore, most e-liquids do not contain any carcinogenic components, which could potentially reduce the risk of cancer associated with smoking cigarettes.
How Vaping Can Help Quit Smoking
It is essential to consider how vaping can be used as a tool to help quit smoking. Studies conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) have shown that switching from smoking cigarettes to vaping can reduce cravings for nicotine and improve lung function in those who make the switch.
The NIDA also notes that using e-cigarettes alongside other smoking cessation aids, such as nicotine gum or patches, can significantly increase the likelihood of quitting smoking for those looking to kick the habit.
Government Regulations Regarding Vaping & Smoking Products
Numerous governments worldwide have heavily regulated the use of vaping and smoking products. Governments have implemented various regulations such as age restrictions, public bans and taxation to reduce the number of people engaging in either practice.
In the United States, for example, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) requires that all vaping and smoking products be approved before being sold. Additionally, the FDA has implemented age restrictions on selling tobacco-related products to protect young people from the potential risks associated with nicotine use.