The topic of vaping and e-cigarettes in general, can be somewhat confusing. This is largely due to a deluge of misinformation being actively pushed online and by some media outlets. Below is a list of some of the widespread myths about vaping, countered by facts that are supported by scientific evidence and data.
Important Note: Vaping isn’t completely safe. We advise it only for adult smokers as a tool for quitting and sustaining their smoke-free lives.
Reality:
Vaping, while not without risks, is significantly less dangerous than traditional smoking. A 2022 review by UK experts concluded that vaping is a much lesser risk compared to smoking in both the short and medium term.
Traditional cigarettes produce thousands of toxic chemicals during combustion, including up to 70 carcinogens. In comparison, the majority of harmful substances found in cigarette smoke, such as tar and carbon monoxide, are absent in vapes.
Switching completely to vaping results in significantly less exposure to harmful substances linked to cancer, heart disease, and respiratory issues.
Reality:
Although nicotine is addictive, it is not the principal health concern in tobacco use. The multitude of other toxins in cigarette smoke are the primary culprits in smoking-related diseases. Nicotine itself has not been shown to cause cancer or heart and lung diseases.
Reality:
Evidence indicates that vaping is one of the most effective methods for quitting smoking, even more so than nicotine replacement therapies like patches or gums. For many, the hand-to-mouth action of vaping mimics smoking, providing a helpful transitional step.
Selecting an e-liquid with a sufficient nicotine level is crucial for alleviating withdrawal symptoms and curbing the desire to smoke.
Reality:
Vaping is much less harmful than smoking. Smoking delivers nicotine through the combustion of tobacco, a process that generates numerous hazardous toxins responsible for severe health issues like cancer, lung disease, heart disease, and stroke.
In contrast, vaping provides nicotine by heating an e-liquid, a method considerably less detrimental to your health. Vaping subjects users to significantly fewer harmful substances and at reduced levels compared to traditional smoking.
Once you feel confident that you won’t revert to smoking, you can start to gradually lower the nicotine concentration in your e-liquid and decrease how often you vape until you are completely free from nicotine.
Reality:
Vaping more often than smoking is not necessarily more harmful. Each puff from a vape is far less risky than a puff from a cigarette.
The manner in which vaping and smoking deliver nicotine to your system is distinct. Smoking provides a rapid nicotine hit in the short span it takes to smoke a single cigarette.
In contrast, vaping usually allows for a slower absorption of nicotine into the brain, requiring you to use your vape device more consistently over time.
Myths about vaping are prevalent, fuelling a divide between smokers, vapers, and the general public. While it’s essential to remember that vaping is not entirely risk-free, the scientific evidence makes it clear that it is a substantially safer alternative to traditional smoking, especially for those trying to quit.
Moreover, it’s crucial to be informed and critical of the sources from which we gather our information. Myths can easily perpetuate when not properly examined and debunked. Therefore, we recommend consulting with healthcare professionals and relying on credible research from sources such as the NHS and scientific institutions to make informed decisions about vaping, particularly if you’re considering it as a smoking cessation aid.
Armed with accurate information, individuals can make better choices for their health and wellbeing. Ultimately, for smokers looking to quit, vaping offers a less harmful alternative that has shown promise in helping people finally break free from the grip of traditional cigarettes. So let’s clear the air once and for all and focus on the facts, not fiction.
At SMKD, we’re committed to helping you make the transition to a smoke free life. With over a decade of experience, we’ve been at the forefront of supporting the British public in their journey to quit smoking.
Whether you have questions about vaping, which nicotine shots to use, or just vaping in general, we’re always here to help. Don’t hesitate to get in touch; your journey to a smoke-free life could start today.
Email – info@smkd.com
Phone – 01274 270303