Vaping and its link to lung cancer is a topic of ongoing research, but current evidence is limited compared to the well-established risks of smoking. Here’s what we do know, although it is obvious more research is needed.
- Potential Risk: Vaping involves inhaling aerosolised chemicals (e.g., nicotine, flavourings, propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin) from e-cigarettes. Some of these chemicals, like formaldehyde and acrolein, are known carcinogens when heated or present in high amounts. However, their levels in vaping are generally much lower than in cigarette smoke, which contains over 7,000 chemicals, including 70+ known carcinogens
- Current Evidence: No definitive studies confirm that vaping directly causes lung cancer. Long-term data is scarce because e-cigarettes are relatively new (widely used since the early 2000s). Animal studies and lab analyses show that some vaping chemicals can damage DNA or cause inflammation, which could theoretically increase cancer risk over decades, but human studies are inconclusive
- Comparison to Smoking: Vaping is considered less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes, as it avoids combustion and many toxic byproducts. Public Health England estimates vaping is much less risky than smoking for cancer and other diseases. However, less risky doesn’t mean there aren’t dangers, especially for children
- Lung Cancer in Non-Smokers: Lung cancer in vapers is rare and usually tied to other factors (e.g., prior smoking, genetics, or environmental exposures like radon). Cases of lung cancer in exclusive vapers are not well-documented, but research is ongoing
- Other Concerns: Vaping has been linked to lung injury and chronic lung irritation, which could indirectly contribute to cancer risk by promoting inflammation
- Genetic Factors: Genetic mutations (e.g., EGFR, KRAS) can drive lung cancer. There’s no clear evidence that vaping directly causes these mutations, but it may exacerbate risks in genetically predisposed individuals
While vaping is likely less carcinogenic than smoking, it’s not risk-free. Long-term studies (20–30 years) are needed to clarify lung cancer risk. If you’re vaping to quit smoking, it’s a safer alternative, but not without potential harm. Quitting all nicotine products is the safest option for lung health. Consult a doctor for personalised advice, especially if you have a family history of lung cancer.
Useful links: