Vaping-Associated Health Risks

Introduction to Vaping Emissions

Vaping devices heat a liquid solution typically containing nicotine, flavoring chemicals, and carrier solvents to produce an aerosol for inhalation, as described by the American Academy of Pediatrics 3
The emission from e-cigarettes is most accurately described as an aerosol, which is a suspension of fine particles in a gas, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics 3
Unlike combustible cigarettes, vaping devices heat liquid without combustion, thus avoiding tar production, as noted by the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine 1, 2

The aerosol from e-cigarettes contains nicotine, flavoring chemicals, propylene glycol, and other substances that may pose health risks when inhaled, as reported by the American Academy of Pediatrics 3

The health risks of electronic cigarettes have not been adequately studied, according to the Forum of International Respiratory Societies 1
Nicotine, regardless of delivery method, is highly addictive and affects many body systems, mediators, and metabolic pathways, as stated by the American College of Cardiology 5, 6
Nicotine has significant cardiovascular effects and may play a major role in the development of coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis, and aortic aneurysms, according to the American College of Cardiology 5, 6

Nonusers can be exposed to e-cigarette emissions both from the aerosol that is exhaled as well as from the aerosol that is generated from the device, as described by the American Academy of Pediatrics 3
Passive inhalation of vaporized droplets, particles, nicotine, and other substances into indoor air may have significant adverse health effects, as noted by the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine 6

Compared with combustible tobacco cigarettes, e-cigarette use likely poses less risk, but is not harmless, as stated by the American College of Cardiology 4
The American College of Cardiology notes that while e-cigarettes may be less harmful than combustible cigarettes, they still pose significant health concerns 4

The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends focusing on proven behavioral counseling and FDA-approved pharmacotherapy for smoking cessation rather than e-cigarettes, as reported by the US Preventive Services Task Force 4, 5
Healthcare providers should recommend that individuals avoid both smoking and vaping for optimal health outcomes, as stated by the American College of Cardiology 4
The Forum of International Respiratory Societies recommends that electronic nicotine delivery devices should be restricted or banned until more information about their safety is available, as noted by the Forum of International Respiratory Societies 1, 5