The Effects of Vaping and the Risk of Lung Cancer Associated with It

Abstract

Electronic cigarettes and other vaping devices have become a popular method of ingesting nicotine. Originally advertised as a way to help tobacco users quit conventional cigarettes, they have become very popular in today’s youth and among nonsmokers. These products are commonly marketed as a healthier alternative to ordinary cigarettes, leading to their rapid growth in use over the last decade. However, many researchers are worried that these products may not be as harmless as they are often made to seem. Although it is difficult to assess the long-term effects of these devices since they are so new, studies suggest that many of the substances used in the liquid that is vaporized in these products, have oncogenic potential. Contaminants that are known carcinogens such as heavy metals have also been found in this liquid, increasing the concern that these devices may have an association with lung cancer. A variety of studies conducted on animals have further demonstrated that certain components of these products have the ability to alter DNA, a step that often leads to cancer. While there is currently not enough research to directly link the use of electronic cigarettes with lung cancer, studies have shown reasonable evidence that this is a likely risk. As these devices continue to increase in popularity, further research is crucial to help prevent a potential rise in lung cancer incidents as well as other lung related diseases.