Vaping always seems like a new fad just coming to the market, even though it has been around for over a decade. Why people vape has remained the same: trying to quit smoking, peer pressure, a perceived lower cost alternative to smoking, or adopting a more health-conscious way of smoking. Here I will address a few things that you may not know about vaping and e-cigarettes.
Many people think that since there are fewer chemicals in most e-cigarettes than in traditional cigarettes, it as a healthy alternative to tobacco. While there may be fewer total chemicals, those found in e-cigarettes can pose health concerns and even danger to your health. E-cigarettes still heat and vaporize nicotine and other chemicals (used to flavor the vapor) that you breathe directly into your lungs. Studies are still underway to determine the long-term effects of vaping, but early research results have linked e-cigarettes to chronic lung disease, acute lung injury, and possibly even cancer.
Nicotine, a key ingredient in e-cigarettes, is a chemical that typically raises
For those who are thinking of picking up e-cigarettes to help quit smoking, remember that e-cigarettes still contain nicotine, the highly addictive chemical in cigarettes. Research has not conclusively shown that e-cigarettes are an optimal way to successfully quit smoking. Many organizations, including the CDC and AAFP (American Academy of Family Physicians) recommended using other methods of smoking cessation first, including gums, lozenges, patches, and medicines. Your primary care physician would be a great person to discuss these options with and help you pick the best one.
Overall, research is still out on the long-term health effects of e-cigarettes and their ability to aid smoking cessation, so be cautious while turning to them as a fun activity or a healthy alternative to smoking. They come with their own set of risks and may blow smoke back in your face when all you really needed was a breath of fresh air.