VAPING MYTHS: DEBUNKING THE MISCONCEPTIONS

Vaping has emerged as a prominent alternative to traditional smoking, especially as an effective tool for quitting. Yet, with its popularity, many myths and misconceptions have clouded the public’s understanding. Many have formed opinions based on half-truths or misinformation, from health risks to its role in smoking cessation.

This article highlights the most common vaping myths and provides information and resources that will help distinguish fact from fiction.

Vaping is as Harmful as Smoking Cigarettes
Vaping is considered less harmful than smoking tobacco cigarettes due to the fact it doesn’t produce toxic chemicals such as benzene, arsenic, and formaldehyde found in tobacco. Instead, e-cigarettes use ingredients like propylene glycol, vegetable glycerine and flavourings, as well as nicotine. While experts are still studying the long-term effects of vaping these chemicals, it appears to be less harmful than cigarette smoking, which is strongly associated with diseases such as lung cancer, heart disease and respiratory issues.

Second-hand Vapour is Harmful
Unlike traditional cigarette smoke, which releases a mix of harmful toxins into the air, e-cigarette vapour is mainly made up of e-liquid ingredients. The concentration of these substances in e-cigarettes is also believed to be much lower than the substances found in second-hand cigarette smoke. As cigarette smoke stays in the air for an extended period, it can cause difficulty breathing for nearby individuals with asthma. It can also trigger headaches for those who suffer from migraines.

Vaping Doesn’t Help People Quit Smoking
Research led by the University of Oxford and funded by Cancer Research U.K. found that e-cigarettes are more effective in helping people quit smoking than traditional nicotine replacement methods like patches and gum.

Smoking traditional cigarettes involves more than just a nicotine addiction; it’s also a habit of holding something between their fingers and repeatedly bringing it to their mouth. Therefore, vaping is an excellent alternative for those who want to quit smoking to benefit their health but struggle to let go of the old holding and puffing habit.

Vaping Leads to Smoking
For years, one of the prevailing vaping myths has been the speculation that e-cigarettes entice non-smokers, particularly youths, to start vaping, ultimately pushing them towards tobacco cigarettes. However, Public Health England (PHE) states,’ Cigarette smoking among youth and adults has continued to decline, and there is no current evidence in England that E.C.s are renormalising smoking or increasing smoking uptake.’ In the U.K., vapes are regulated consumer products that can only be sold to individuals over the age of 18.

Vaping is Addictive
Vaping, as a mechanism, doesn’t inherently possess addictive qualities. However, many e-liquids contain nicotine, which is a known addictive substance. Nicotine stimulates dopamine release in the brain, increasing pleasure and reinforcement of the behaviour, encouraging dependence. Luckily for users, the vaping market offers e-liquids without nicotine to help wean off smoking altogether.

Vaping Causes Popcorn Lung
The claim that vaping leads to Bronchiolitis Obliterans, often referred to as ‘popcorn lung’, has gained traction among the vaping myths circulating in public discourse. This misconception stems from concerns regarding a chemical named diacetyl in certain e-liquids.

Diacetyl is a yellow liquid that has an intensely buttery flavour. It’s linked to popcorn lung after eight former workers from a single American factory packaging popcorn for microwave use fell ill with the disease after inhaling it during the popcorn flavouring stage.

While diacetyl was present in some e-liquids, the levels were too low to cause popcorn lung. However, diacetyl is now banned as an ingredient and vapes from reputable retailers should not contain it.

Vapes Explode and Cause Serious Injuries
Although there have been isolated incidents of e-cigarette batteries malfunctioning and leading to explosions, these events are rare and often tied to misuse, like using incompatible chargers or carrying loose batteries without protection. Most vaping devices from reputable retailers are safe and do not pose such risks when used and maintained correctly. Following health and safety precautions are essential to prevent potential issues.

How to Choose the Right E-cigarette?
Choosing the right e-cigarette depends on individual preferences and needs. Begin by identifying your primary goal, whether it’s transitioning from tobacco cigarettes or looking to move to a nicotine-free experience.

If you need that cigarette between your fingers feeling, consider starting with a cig-a-like. However, cig-a-likes often rely on pre-filled cartridges, limiting flavour options and nicotine levels. If you want a more user-friendly option with various flavours, consider purchasing a pod system or a vape pen.

For the best experience and safety, buy only premium e-liquids from trusted companies to ensure the quality of the product and its ingredients. Always prioritise products with safety certifications and purchase from reputable brands and vendors.