Is vaping safer than smoking?

They do not list all the ingredients in the liquids. They contain a range of chemicals that have not been tested for safety, and those that are classified as nicotine-free have been found to have nicotine. There is no guarantee of the exact quantity of nicotine in any of the nicotine-free claimed or unclaimed vaping products.

Chemicals in Vapes

There are many dangerous substances in the liquids and aerosols, some of which are cancer-causing agents, propylene glycol, acrolein, and heavy metals like nickel, tin, and lead. Some chemicals in e-cigarettes or vape aerosols can also damage DNA.

• Propylene glycol is a common additive that is in paint solvents, artificial smoke, and antifreeze.
• Carcinogens chemicals such as acetaldehyde and formaldehyde.
• Acrolein is an herbicide that kills weeds and can cause irreversible lung damage.
• Cadmium is a toxic metal found in traditional cigarettes that causes breathing problems.
• Benzene is a compound found in car exhaust.

Nicotine is a highly addictive substance, whether it's taken in a cigarette or a vape. It is associated with many health risks and problems, such as cancer of the mouth, throat, and lungs.

Individuals believe the myth that vaping is safer than smoking, when it is not. Long-term health effects caused by vaping are:

• Asthma- vaping can make you more susceptible to asthma or other lung conditions or make existing ones worse.
• Lung scarring - Diacetyl, a chemical used in some flavours, can cause bronchiolitis, which is permanent scarring on the lungs.
• Organ damage - in addition to lung disease, nicotine can raise blood pressure and hurt brain development.
• Evali - is a serious lung condition that vaping causes and it can be fatal.
• Explosions - there have been reports of vaping device batteries exploding and causing serious injuries and burns.

There are other potential harms like irritation of the mouth and airways, persistent coughing, nausea, and vomiting. Other health risks are much more worrisome, like chest pain and palpitations. Inhaling too much nicotine can result in poisoning and seizures, respiratory problems, and lung damage.

There is an association between young people who vape and how they are 3 times more likely to smoke cigarettes in the future. Research shows that many e-cigarette users are using tobacco products simultaneously, being dual users. Therefore, there is no evidence of reduced risk of smoking if vapes are used as an alternative.

Safety Concerns About e-cigarettes

• Electronic cigarettes or vapes tend to deliver unreliable doses of nicotine despite their labeling.
• They do not list the presence of the actual contents.
• Secondhand smoke risks are still present which poses a risk to public health.
• They contain other unknown, toxic chemicals, and have unsafe packaging.
• They have no safety measures for children and encourage the uptake of smoking.

Some people quit smoking with low-dose nicotine vapes, especially if the association with nicotine is more of a handheld action than anything else. Many other products are safer and effective in quitting smoking with much less harm.

In Australia, the law has made vape/e-cigarette products prescription only hence, it is unlawful for them to be supplied or sold without a doctor's prescription approval.

There are currently no therapeutic vapes evaluated by the TGA or included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). The Government has made all e-cigarette products available only in a prescription pharmacy setting. There are already restrictions on the import, advertising, availability, and sale of products and liquids.

Individuals who may use vaping as an alternative to smoking should explore nicotine replacement products. There are effective nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) products that provide many strengths and types to ensure they cater to individuals who need to begin their smoking cessation journey.

Whilst NRTs are effective, for heavy smokers, it may not be enough for individuals to completely be successful in quitting. Doctors may recommend prescription treatment tablets, whilst lifestyle changes ensure a successful chance of quitting smoking.