What is vaping?
Vapes are battery powered devices that heat liquids up into aersols that can be breathed in.
Despite its negative effects on health, vapes are still being used.
Around one in six teenagers aged 14 - 17 have tried vaping.
Meanwhile, one in four people aged 18 - 24 have tried vaping.
Is vaping safer than smoking?
Studies generally report less adverse effects in vaper users than cigarette smokes making vaping better than smoking. However, vaping does come with health risks. However, vaping smoke contains many irritants such as propylene glycol, glycol and nicotine. Propylene glycol has been classified by WHO as a carcinogenic compound when heated to higher temperatures. Nicotine is associated with addiction. Moreover, it interferes with brain development in adolescents and young adults.
Vaping has been associated with dryness and black tongue. People who practice vaping also have poorer periodontal health than non - users, due to increased microbiome disruption and inflammation. Gingival bleeding is less in those who vape, due to the vasoconstriction.
Overall, the evidence is very inconclusive and there are not enough long term studies demonstrating its use. Safety is questionable but will require more future research.
What is being done about vaping?
Currently, the government has put in more funding to discourage youths from vaping. The chemicals in vaping may be less than that in cigarette smoke. However, it is still harmful to youths.
Should you vape?
For those who do not currently smoke, vaping is not something one should begin. Nicotine is addictive. The risk to oral and general health is present.
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