As society continues to emphasize healthier lifestyle choices, the longstanding debate on the relative merits and demerits of vaping vs. smoking continues to heat up. Central to this discourse is the comparison of various aspects such as health risks, nicotine absorption, secondhand smoke, smoking cessation, among others.
Despite being a relatively novel entrant, vaping has gained quick popularity, especially among young adults. A large reason for this shift is the commonly held belief that vaping is a less harmful alternative to smoking; however, is that truly the case? If we dive into the intricacies, the scenario becomes less black and white and more of a gradient.
Foremost, let’s comprehensively delve into the health risks associated with both vaping and smoking. Traditional cigarettes are notorious for their deadly cocktail of chemicals. The combustion of tobacco produces over 7,000 chemicals, many of which are carcinogenic. They significantly contribute to lung damage, oral hygiene issues, and various types of cancers.
Conversely, unlike smoking, vaping does not involve the combustion of tobacco. Instead, it heats a liquid—which contains nicotine, flavors, and other chemicals—turning it into an aerosol. While that might seem inherently safer, it’s important to note vaping also introduces harmful substances into your lungs. These substances can cause lung damage and disease.
Regarding nicotine absorption, both cigarettes and e-cigarettes deliver nicotine, albeit in different ways. Cigarettes supply a robust nicotine punch with a steady ‘hit’ in comparison to vape pens. Vaping can deliver a large amount of nicotine, more in line with the experience of traditional smoking. This might make them more addictive and, therefore, challenging to quit.
The dangers of secondhand smoke from traditional cigarettes are well-established, leading many public places to ban smoking. Secondhand smoke increases the risk of various health issues, from heart disease to lung cancer. On the other hand, secondhand exposure to vape aerosol isn’t harmless but is likely to be less harmful than smoking.
When it comes to smoking cessation, many users hold that e-cigarettes can help. However, the evidence remains debatable. Some studies suggest that e-cigarettes can help individuals quit smoking, while others find that they may actually hinder smoking cessation attempts.
One of the main reasons smoking is detrimental to health is the tar produced by tobacco combustion. Tar not only impairs lung function but also stains teeth, damages gum, and ruins oral hygiene. Vaping, on the contrary, does not produce tar, making it theoretically ‘safer’ from an oral hygiene perspective.
Lastly, carbon monoxide, a toxic byproduct of cigarette combustion, binds with haemoglobin in the blood, reducing its oxygen-carrying capacity. This occurrence can lead to breathing difficulties and, in worst-case scenarios, death. Vaping, however, does not produce carbon monoxide.
In conclusion, while both vaping and smoking have their own set of potential health risks, it’s undeniable that vaping eliminates some of the more harmful by-products of smoking. But it’s crucial to remember that vaping is not completely ‘safe.’ If you don’t smoke or vape currently, it’s best not to start. If you do and want to quit, seek help—there are proven-effective treatments that can help you stop.
Comment here