Smoking is terrible for one’s health, however, around 30.8 million adults in the U.S. currently smoke cigarettes according to the CDC. Smoking causes numerous diseases including cancer, heart disease, strokes, diabetes, and more, so it’s in global public health interest to decrease the number of people who smoke.
The impact of vaping on health
A research group from the University of Washington has released a study that could contribute to improving the health of smokers. Their findings showed that shifting to e-cigarettes may improve the health and well-being of smokers by inspiring healthy lifestyle changes.
The study followed changes in health and social functioning of adult long-term smokers aged 30 to 39. The participants that switched to e-cigarettes reportedly experienced better physical health, exercised more, and had a more active social life.
“Although the study cannot show a causal relationship, we think that because e-cigarettes have less stigma, less odor, and are less physically harmful, they may increase health-promoting opportunities among smokers. E-cigarette users may be more likely to be in settings that promote physical activity and have more opportunities to interact with nonsmokers,” said lead author Rick Kosterman.
E-cigarettes can still be harmful
The CDC considers e-cigarettes safer than traditional or combustible cigarettes, however, vaping still carries certain risks. The aerosol contains nicotine, heavy metals, and cancer-causing substances, plus may have acted as a gateway for the youth to start smoking.
For these reasons, the researchers stress that e-cigarettes still have substantial public health downsides. Their study simply shows that for adults that already smoke and are unable to quit, vaping can be associated with healthier choices and routines.
Source study: Drug and Alcohol Dependence – Is e-cigarette use associated with better health and functioning among smokers approaching midlife?
