Being a fairly recent phenomenon, vaping is very much an alien concept to those who don’t partake in it. Many seem to consider vaping just as harmful as smoking tobacco even though there have been many scientific studies conducted that in fact prove the opposite.
In order to separate the myths from the facts, we think that we had better address some of the most common misconceptions about vaping. It’s best to be as well-informed as possible for the next time someone tries to lecture you on the ‘dangers of vaping’.
We don’t know about the risks of vaping yet
The short-term effects of vaping have been covered extensively. Studies from all over the world have confirmed that the health risks of vaping are miniscule compared to smoking. A February 2017 study found significantly lower levels of toxins in those who swapped smoking for vaping for 6 months.
Second-hand vape is harmful
Again, vaping wrongly falls victim to many of the stereotypical ills associated with smoking. Unlike second-hand smoke, second hand vape has been found to have negligible toxicity (the same levels of carcinogens as ambient air) by both the Lolliard Tobacco Company and the NCBI. Consequently, it is fair to say that vaping does not pose a health risk to those around you.
Vaping is just as bad for you as smoking
Unlike the tar and carbon monoxide found in cigarettes, vapes do not contain any of the harmful substances that cause smoking-related diseases like heart disease and cancer. Countless studies in recent years have conclusively found that vaping is a safer and healthier alternative to smoking. A 2015 report commissioned by Public Health England found that electronic cigarettes are up to 95% safer than cigarettes – a significant margin that makes vaping an obvious alternative to smoking.
We don’t know what’s in e-liquids
Even though cigarettes have been around for close to a hundred years, many of the thousands of chemicals in cigarettes remain unidentified. With e-liquids, we know exactly what goes into their creation. E-liquids are made from a composition of organic vegetable glycerine, propylene glycol, flavourings and nicotine. Propylene glycol in particular has courted controversy for its use in antifreeze but it also commonly used in inhalers and is proven to be safe for inhalation. The level of nicotine can vary from reasonably high to none at all, and can therefore cater to all needs with a view to a reduction over time.
Non-smokers will start vaping
The 2015 report by Public Health England found that electronic cigarettes are attracting very few people who have never smoked into regular electronic cigarette use. According to the Office for National Statistics, just 0.1% of e-cigarette users have never smoked. Even if non-smokers do decide to start vaping, it is possible to get vaporisers that do not include nicotine, so this would produce no addictive effects.
It is clear that vaping is a safe and healthier alternative to smoking and can even be an effective means of quitting smoking. Whether you are considering investing in your first vape or stocking up on e-liquids click here to see a massive selection of vape products.