Since their shattering arrival in the mid -2010s, electronic cigarettes have attracted millions of followers, promising a miracle solution to quit smoking. But behind the scented vapor hide unsuspected dangers, reports the American daily The New York Times. So, is vaping a real alternative or a new trap for health?
Published on June 25 in the journal ACS Central Science, an American study threw a cold. Steam analyzes of several popular models of electronic cigarettes have revealed alarming concentrations of heavy metals (nickel, antimony, lead, etc.), so much so that one of the researchers believed in a failure of its measuring device. These substances, known for their toxicity, are likely to accumulate in the body and increase the risk of cancers and neurological diseases.
Inhale steam of an electronic cigarette is not without consequence for the cardiovascular system. With each puff, the heart rate accelerates, the blood vessels contract and the blood pressure climbs. According to James Stein, professor at the University of Wisconsin, vaping all day amounts to living permanently with high tension, which promotes cardiac accidents and strokes in the long term. In addition, the heat released by the device can transform liquids into carcinogenic substances such as formaldehyde.
“Popcorn” lungs and other pleasures
Far from being harmless, steam irritates the respiratory tract, causing inflammation, chronic cough and breath. In asthmatics or people who suffer from chronic obstructive bronchopneumopathy (COPD), symptoms can worsen. Some flavors contain chemical compounds that weaken pulmonary cells, which increases the risk of serious lesions, even rare diseases like that of the “popcorn” lung.
Like tobacco, nicotine of electronic cigarettes reduces blood circulation to gums, making them more vulnerable to periodontal infections and diseases. Bad news for the smile of vapers.
Vaping is not just a trivial gesture. It creates a real dependence, particularly in adolescents whose brain is still in development. The new models, always more powerful and dosed in nicotine, can contain the equivalent of a hundred packets of cigarettes in a single device. Result: addiction settles quickly, with its share of withdrawal symptoms: anxiety, irritability, depression.
If vaping remains less widespread than conventional cigarettes, its success with young people and the multiplication of new more addictive products worry the experts. Research is struggling to keep up with the frantic pace of innovation, but one thing is certain: steam is not as light as it looks. Caution, therefore, before succumbing to the temptation of the scented cloud.