Is vaping worse than smoking? Risks and benefits by Dr.Gosagan

Summary: Vaping and smoking both come with health risks, but vaping is often seen as a harm-reduction alternative for smokers. While vaping avoids tobacco combustion, which produces thousands of harmful chemicals, it still carries risks like nicotine addiction, respiratory issues, and unknown long-term effects. Smoking, on the other hand, is a leading cause of cancer, heart disease, and reduced lifespan. Quitting both is the best option for health

The debate over vaping and smoking has garnered significant attention in recent years. Both activities carry risks, but understanding how they compare, and the potential long-term consequences is essential for making informed decisions about your health.  

When I left the UK, e-cigarettes were in vogue, and some produced by British American Tobacco had even been approved by the UK Medicines Regulator (MHRA). Nearly nine years on from that approval, we now know that vapes aren’t as safe as we initially thought. This article delves into key questions surrounding vaping and smoking and explores ways to quit for better health outcomes. 

Is vaping worse than smoking?

While smoking has long been established as a leading cause of preventable deaths globally, vaping presents its own set of concerns. Research suggests that vaping may be less harmful than smoking because it avoids burning tobacco, a process that releases thousands of harmful chemicals. However, vaping is not risk-free and contains its own set of health hazards, particularly for young users. 

Nicotine in vapes is highly addictive and can affect brain development in teenagers. Additionally, certain chemicals used in e-liquids can cause respiratory irritation and other health issues. Importantly, long-term data on vaping is still limited, leaving open questions about its full impact on health. 

Summary: Vaping may be less harmful than smoking, but it is not risk-free.  

Category	Smoking	Vaping
General risks	Smoking is a leading cause of preventable deaths and is linked to severe health complications.	Vaping may be less harmful than smoking, but it still carries significant health risks, especially for young users.
Nicotine addiction	Highly addictive; withdrawal symptoms can make quitting difficult.	Nicotine in vapes is also addictive, potentially leading to long-term dependency.
Respiratory issues	Causes Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), emphysema, and lung cancer.	May cause lung irritation, inflammation, and "popcorn lung" due to certain chemicals.
Cardiovascular impact	Increases the risk of heart disease, strokes, and high blood pressure.	Nicotine use can lead to increased heart rate and stress on the cardiovascular system.
Cancer risks	Leading cause of lung cancer; contributes to cancers of the mouth, throat, bladder, and more.	Long-term cancer risks are still unclear, but some chemicals in e-liquids may pose risks.
Long-term effects	Severe health issues, including reduced lung capacity, premature ageing, and weakened immunity.	Potential for chronic lung damage, cardiovascular strain, and prolonged nicotine dependency.
Quitting strategies	Behavioural Support: Therapy, counselling, or online programs. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT): Patches, gum, lozenges. Medications: Prescription drugs like varenicline. Support Groups: Connecting with others for motivation.	Similar quitting strategies as smoking. Vaping can be a transition tool to quit smoking but should not be used long-term.

Is vaping better than smoking?

For individuals who smoke, vaping may offer a harm-reduction approach. Public health organisations in some countries, such as the UK, view vaping as a safer alternative to smoking because it eliminates combustion and reduces exposure to toxic chemicals. However, this recommendation typically applies only to smokers who are transitioning to quit smoking altogether. 

Vaping should not be considered a "healthy" choice or used recreationally, especially by non-smokers. The risk of nicotine addiction and potential exposure to harmful substances still makes vaping a less-than-ideal option for overall health. 

Summary: Vaping may help smokers quit but is not a safe option for non-smokers.

Risks of vaping

Vaping carries risks, including: 

• Nicotine addiction: Nicotine dependence can develop quickly, especially in young people. 
• Respiratory issues: Inhalation of chemicals like diacetyl can lead to lung problems. 
• Cardiovascular concerns: Emerging research links vaping with increased heart rate and blood pressure. 
• Unknown long-term effects: The relatively recent emergence of vaping means long-term health outcomes are still unclear. 

Risks of smoking

Smoking is one of the most dangerous health behaviours, causing: 

• Cancer: Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer and contributes to cancers of the mouth, throat, bladder, and more. 
• Respiratory diseases: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and emphysema are directly linked to smoking. 
• Heart disease: Smoking increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. 
• Reduced lifespan: On average, smokers live 10 years less than non-smokers. 

Summary: Vaping has its own risks, including addiction, lung issues, and cardiovascular effects. Smoking is extremely harmful, increasing risks of cancer, heart disease, and early death.

Also read: How do you get rid of a smoker’s cough?

Long-term effects of smoking

The long-term effects of smoking are well-documented and severe. These include chronic respiratory diseases, heart disease, numerous types of cancer, and a significantly reduced quality of life due to diminished lung capacity and other complications. Smoking also has visible effects, such as premature ageing of the skin and a weakened immune system. 

Long-term effects of vaping

While vaping avoids some of the dangers of smoking, it is not without risks. Potential long-term effects include: 

• Chronic lung damage: Early studies suggest vaping may contribute to lung scarring and inflammation. A condition called, “popcorn lung” is linked to vaping. 
• Cardiovascular strain: Long-term nicotine use can stress the cardiovascular system. 
• Dependency: Continued use of vapes can perpetuate nicotine addiction. 

Summary: The long-term effects of smoking are severe and life-threatening and vaping may cause lung damage, heart strain, and long-term addiction.

Quitting smoking and vaping

Quitting smoking or vaping can significantly improve your health and quality of life. Strategies to quit include: 

• Behavioural support: Counselling, whether in person or online, can help address triggers and develop coping mechanisms. 
• Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT): Products like patches, gum, or lozenges can ease withdrawal symptoms. 
• Medications: Prescription medications like varenicline may assist with cravings. 
• Support groups: Sharing your journey with others can provide motivation and accountability. 

Using vapes to quit smoking

For smokers who have struggled to quit with other methods, vaping may offer a stepping stone to becoming smoke-free. It’s crucial, however, to transition away from vaping as well to avoid prolonged nicotine dependency. Consultation with a healthcare provider can help you develop a personalised quit plan. 

Where to get help in Australia?

If you’re looking to quit smoking or vaping in Australia, resources are available: 

• Quitline: Call 13 QUIT (13 7848) for free advice and support. 
• Online resources: Websites like Quit.org.au offer tools and information. 
• Local GPs: Your doctor can provide personalised guidance and prescriptions. 

Also read: Online doctors for quitting smoking: Your virtual lifeline 

How can telehealth help?

Telehealth is an increasingly accessible option for Australians seeking support to quit smoking or vaping. At Hola Health, our online doctors can assist with: 

• Instant consultations: Telehealth appointments provide tailored advice, support, mental health care plans and strategies to quit. 
• Prescriptions and NRT: Access to nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) or medications to manage withdrawal through instant scripts. 
• Referrals: If specialised care or counselling is needed or some testing is needed, Hola Health can facilitate online doctor referrals. 
• Support at your convenience: Flexible appointments mean help is available wherever you are. 

How can Hola’s online doctor help via telehealth?

At Hola Health, we believe in empowering Australians to take charge of their health. If you’re ready to quit smoking or vaping, our online doctors can help with personalised advice, online prescriptions, and ongoing support—all from the comfort of your home.  Take the first step towards a healthier future today with Hola Health.