Antoni Baena, a professor of Health Sciences Studies at the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC) and a smoking cessation expert, has warned that vaping has a "direct, rapid, and clear impact on health." He emphasizes the importance of quitting as soon as possible, as the long-term effects of vaping remain unknown.
Nicotine Addiction and Lack of Regulation
Baena explains that many e-cigarette liquids contain nicotine, even if not explicitly stated, due to the lack of strict regulation and control. This lack of transparency can lead to addiction among users. Moreover, the expert highlights the growing ecological impact of e-cigarettes, particularly with the emergence of disposable products, which have already been banned in many countries.
Debunking the Myth of Vaping Being Less Harmful
The idea that vaping is less harmful than smoking is a myth, according to Baena. "There is no scientific basis to say that e-cigarettes are less harmful, for several reasons. Firstly, there are very few specific studies that assess the damage caused by vaping, and even fewer long-term studies, as it is a relatively recent phenomenon compared to tobacco consumption," he explains.
However, science does explain the main risks associated with vaping. "The components of e-cigarettes include nicotine, a highly addictive substance; vaporization facilitators, such as polyethylene glycol, glycerol, or propylene glycol; food additives (E-1520, E-422, and E-1520) with unknown safe values after being heated and inhaled, producing formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acrolein, known carcinogens and lung toxins; more than 15,500 flavorings that, when thermally decomposed, generate carcinogenic aldehydes; and menthol, which, in addition to being a flavoring, suppresses the cough reflex," Baena enumerates.
Alarming Prevalence of Vaping Among Youth
Various surveys, such as the Estudes report (2023), Edades report (2022), and studies involving the UOC's Epi4health research group and the University of Manresa, have collected data on the consumption of e-cigarettes among young people.
"These surveys indicate that among students aged 14 to 18, 55% have consumed e-cigarettes at some point. Among adults in Europe, there is a daily use prevalence of 2%, with 53% being dual users with tobacco," Baena explains. In 2014, the percentage of young people aged 14 to 18 who had tried e-cigarettes was 17%, according to the first report cited.
"Smoking is the leading preventable cause of death in developed countries, and vapers are its gateway, in addition to being harmful and delaying the abandonment of the habit," Baena notes.
Eight Steps to Quit Smoking and Vaping
To help individuals quit smoking and vaping, Professor Baena outlines an eight-step process. The first step is to have a clear motivation and objective: improving health and avoiding addiction. Next, set a date to start and dispose of all vaping equipment.
Identify moments, emotions, and situations that encouraged vaping and initially avoid them until they are under control. Seek professional help, primarily, or support from family and friends. Consult with a healthcare professional about using first-line treatments for tobacco cessation, both pharmacological and psychological.
Break routines and stay busy and distracted. Engage in exercise to notice the physical improvements that quitting vaping or smoking brings to health. Finally, congratulate yourself for the effort, as this is essential for eliminating the habit.
As the vaping industry continues to evolve and more information about the potential risks associated with e-cigarettes comes to light, it is crucial for consumers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to stay informed and make decisions based on the latest scientific evidence. By raising awareness about the true nature of vaping and its potential dangers, experts like Professor Baena play a vital role in promoting public health and encouraging individuals to quit these harmful habits.
