In Hot Air: Understanding the Health Implications of Vaping

In the ever-evolving landscape of health trends, some arrive with promises of innovation and improvement, while others harbour hidden dangers beneath their enticing veneer. Some trends pass through the community innocuously, while others leave a trail of destruction in their path. One such trend that has raised concerns is vaping. While touted as a "safer" alternative to traditional smoking, vaping is not without its own risks. In this post, we will delve into the health implications of vaping, focusing on its effects on organ systems, dopamine, and the dangers of addiction and long-term use.  

What is it?

 Vape liquid, also known as e-liquid, typically contains a few main ingredients. However, it is important to note that the specific composition can vary depending on the brand, flavour, and type of e-liquid. 

Common Ingredients

Propylene Glycol: This is a synthetic organic compound used as a base in many e-liquids. It helps to distribute the flavour and produces a throat-hit sensation.

Vegetable Glycerine: Another common base ingredient, vegetable glycerine is derived from vegetable oils. It provides a smoother vapour and is responsible for producing visible clouds when exhaling.

Flavourings: Vape liquids are available in a wide range of flavours, from traditional tobacco and menthol to fruity, dessert, or beverage-inspired flavours. Flavourings are typically food-grade additives that provide taste.

Nicotine: Although not all vape liquids contain nicotine, many options do. Nicotine is an addictive substance found in tobacco plants, and it is available in various strengths or concentrations in e-liquids.

Water: Water is sometimes added to thin out the e-liquid and adjust its viscosity.

Optional Additives: Some vape liquids may include additional additives such as sweeteners or cooling agents for enhanced flavour or sensation.

Effects on Organ Systems

Respiratory System: Vaping exposes the respiratory system to aerosols and chemicals, potentially leading to lung irritation, inflammation, and impaired respiratory function. Studies have linked vaping to acute lung injuries, bronchitis-like symptoms, and an increased risk of respiratory infections.

Cardiovascular System: The cardiovascular system can be adversely affected by vaping due to the presence of nicotine and other chemicals. Vaping has been associated with an increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, arterial stiffness, and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Immune System: Emerging evidence suggests that vaping may compromise the immune system's ability to fight off infections. The inhalation of harmful chemicals and potential lung damage can weaken the immune response, making vapers more susceptible to respiratory infections.

Effects on the Dopamine System

Nicotine Addiction: Vaping e-liquids often contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance that stimulates the release of dopamine in the brain. This can lead to dependence and addiction, making it challenging for individuals to quit vaping.

Reward Pathway Hijacking: Prolonged nicotine exposure through vaping can alter the brain's reward circuitry. This can result in the reinforcement of nicotine-seeking behaviour, making it difficult for individuals to break free from the addictive cycle.

Dangers of Addiction: Vaping can lead to nicotine addiction, creating a dependence that can be challenging to overcome. Nicotine addiction is associated with withdrawal symptoms, mood swings, anxiety, and difficulties in concentration.

Gateway to Tobacco Use: Studies have indicated that vaping may serve as a gateway to traditional tobacco use, especially among young individuals. This raises concerns about a potential rise in smoking rates and the associated health risks.

Unknown Long-Term Health Effects: Definitive evidence linking smoking to lung cancer emerged in the mid-1960s. However, it took decades for regulations on tobacco sales and advertising to be implemented. It wasn't until 2003 that the WHO adopted its Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). 

Vaping is a relatively recent phenomenon, and its long-term health effects are not yet fully understood. While it may be less harmful than traditional smoking, the inhalation of chemicals and the potential for lung damage raise concerns about the long-term implications on respiratory health. We are likely in a phase akin to the early days before the harmful effects of smoking were fully understood. Like that era, the current state of vaping presents an unknown territory for long-term health consequences, making users unwitting "guinea pigs." Just as people were unaware of the risks of smoking before regulations, the uncertainty surrounding vaping emphasises the need for careful exploration, thorough research, and comprehensive regulation to protect public health.

Conclusion

The rise of vaping presents a multifaceted health concern. While marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, vaping's unpredictable liquid compositions pose risks to our respiratory and cardiovascular systems. The addictive nature of nicotine, impacting the brain's dopamine system, raises substantial concerns, as does its potential to serve as a gateway to traditional tobacco use among youth. Moreover, the lack of comprehensive regulation and limited knowledge of long-term health effects necessitate urgent attention. As healthcare professionals and concerned individuals, we must advocate for research, evidence-based policies, and education to safeguard current and future generations from the complex challenges and risks associated with vaping, acknowledging that it may be less harmful than smoking but still demands a vigilant and informed approach.