Scientist reveals vaping's immediate harm to the body

A study has shed light on the "immediate" negative effects of vaping, particularly its impact on circulation and vascular function, even without nicotine. Researchers in the USA highlighted these acute effects, raising concerns about the health risks associated with e-cigarette use.

Vaping, which involves inhaling vapor that can deliver nicotine and comes in various flavors, has gained popularity, particularly among young people.

Dr. Marianne Nabbout, lead author of the study from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, noted: "E-cigarettes have been promoted as a safer alternative to traditional tobacco smoking. Some believe they don't contain harmful substances like free radicals found in regular cigarettes because they don’t involve combustion."

However, despite the lower exposure to toxic substances, Dr Nabbout warns that vaping can still impair vascular health and overall wellbeing. The investigation took place at the University of Pennsylvania, where Dr Nabbout and her team examined both the immediate effects of vaping and the short-term impacts of cigarette smoking on the vascular system, with variants including nicotine-free options, reports Surrey Live.

The study, which was published in November last year, involved 31 healthy individuals who either smoke or vape, aged between 21 and 49. Across three sessions, participants underwent MRI scans before and after using tobacco cigarettes, e-cigarettes with nicotine, and e-cigarettes without nicotine.

A cuff was used to limit blood flow in the thigh, and upon release, measurements were taken of both the speed of blood flow in the femoral artery and the oxygen levels in the blood returning to the heart. Additionally, brain blood flow was monitored using a specific MRI technique known as phase-contrast MRI.

This data was then compared against baseline scans from 10 non-smokers and non-vapers aged 21 to 33. The results indicated a "significant" reduction in resting blood flow velocity in the superficial femoral artery after each smoking or vaping session.

The most substantial impact on vascular function was seen following the use of nicotine-containing e-cigarettes, followed by those without nicotine. Vapers also showed decreased venous oxygen saturation, regardless of the nicotine content in the e-cigarettes.

Dr. Nabbout remarked: "This study serves to highlight the acute effects smoking and vaping can have on a multitude of vascular beds in the human body." She warned that even a single use of an e-cigarette could show immediate effects on the vessels, suggesting that long-term use might lead to vascular disease. Ultimately, we are relying on science to help guide the regulation of such products in favour of public health. Refraining from smoking and vaping is always recommended."