There have been many articles and media sources recently posting research findings about the cancer-causing consequences of vaping. However, instead of providing accurately vetted and thoroughly checked information, we’re starting to see a lot of headlines:
“Fears vaping and e-cigs could pose MAJOR hidden health danger”
“With e-cigs, Flavorings May Pose the Greatest Danger”
“New evidence shows vaping may increase risks of cancer”
However, the thing to remember about the internet is that anyone can post to it. And many of the articles in circulation today are only serving one purpose: clickbait. As in to drive traffic to obscure or low-repute websites. And the way to do this is to create articles with sensationalized headlines. So let’s set the record straight (again).
Risk Factors for Cancer
Cancer is among one of the most complex groups of human diseases that can arise from a number of factors. Genetics, long-term exposure to radiation, environmental contaminants, and lifestyle are a few.
It’s been well-known in the scientific community for decades that tobacco use poses a significant risk for the development of many different types of cancers. In fact, ONE THIRD of all cancers are caused by lifestyle factors such as diet, obesity, alcohol consumption, and, you guessed it, tobacco use.
However, it’s important to note that most of the risk from traditional cigarettes comes from the combustion of the additives and chemicals in ADDITION to the tobacco. Which mix in the inhaled smoke to create a big ole cancer-causing mess.
Misleading Scientific Evidence
Before buying into fear-mongering and clickbait headlines, especially those touting scientific credibility, there are a few things to keep in mind. Many of the studies examining vaping are not being conducted on humans. They may be using mice or human cells, for example. Because of this, the study cannot accurately claim a causal link between vaping and cancers.
The Real Consequences of Vaping
Many in the scientific community agree that while vaping may not be “harmless” per se, it is still infinitely safer than traditional cigarettes. With some estimating e-cigs pose as little as 5% the risk of traditional cigarettes. E-cigs also contain LESS nicotine than their traditional counterparts, further diminishing harmfulness.
There’s a lot of information swirling around on the world wide web, always make sure to read with a critical eye, ask questions, and consider the source.
