Vaping: Is It Worse Than Cigarettes?
The Rise of Vaping Among Young People
Recent data shows that one out of every five high school students currently vape in the US. In the UK, 7% of kids aged 11 to 17 now vape, nearly double the number from two years ago. Surprisingly, more young people are vaping than smoking cigarettes. However, with the news of vape-related deaths and the lack of regulation, experts are questioning whether vaping is worse than smoking.
The Nicotine Rush in Vapes
One of the reasons vaping is addictive is because
nicotine in vapes hits the bloodstream and brain faster than cigarettes. Vapes
use a coil that heats to high temperatures, creating thermal conditions for a
carrier like propylene glycol. This mixture, combined with nicotine and
chemical flavourings, enters the lungs and bloodstream more quickly than
cigarette smoke.
Studies have shown that each puff of a vape contains more nicotine than a cigarette. Nicotine is a powerful drug that can have intense effects on the body, leading to addiction and cravings.
The Effects of Nicotine on the Body
Nicotine affects the body in complex ways. It
increases dopamine levels, leading to feelings of motivation, concentration,
and elevated mood. While mentally aware and alert, nicotine also physically
relaxes the body. This combination of effects makes nicotine highly addictive.
Additionally, nicotine can alter blood flow in the body, potentially leading to erectile dysfunction in men who vape. Studies have shown that men who use e-cigarettes are more than twice as likely to experience erectile dysfunction compared to non-vapers.
The Dangers of Vaping
Vaping has gained attention due to the mysterious
vaping-related deaths. Deaths are because of THC vapes, which are less
regulated than nicotine vapes. Some THC vapes contained a chemical called
vitamin E acetate, which caused severe lung issues and even death. However, it
is essential to note that nicotine vapes did not cause these deaths.
Aside from the potential dangers of THC vapes, there are concerns about the chemicals used in flavoured vapes. Chemicals like cinnamaldehyde, used to create cinnamon flavour, have been found to impair lung function and increase the risk of lung infection. Other chemicals, such as 25-dimethyl pyrine and ISO Amal acetate, have pro-inflammatory effects on the respiratory tract and can lead to cancer.
Are Vapes Worse Than Cigarettes?
While vaping has its risks, most scientists and
physicians agree that cigarettes are still worse. Cigarette smoke contains tar
and other chemicals that cause significant damage to the lungs. Smoking
cigarettes, as compared to inhaling car exhaust fumes, contributes to millions
of deaths worldwide each year.
However, the rise in vaping among young people is
concerning. More research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects
of vaping, especially on young people's lungs. Vaping is primarily famous in
Europe, the US, and China, but its popularity is growing.