Vaping-health risks identified as study launched

The official advice from NHS England is that whilst vaping is not considered to be risk free, it is considered to be substantially less harmful than tobacco smoking. However, a preview of a study due to conclude in March - as reported by The London Economic (26/2/25) suggests that advice may be about to change.

A shift in the vaping conversation

Researchers from the Manchester Metropolitan University led by Dr Maxine Boidin carried out a world first study into the long-term effects of vaping. The London Economic reports Dr Boidin as stating:

“What we have found is the dangers for someone who keeps vaping are no different to smokers’’

Tests revealed that both vapers and smokers showed damage to their artery walls indicating that both groups are at risk of severe cardiovascular problems in the future. Dr Boidin believes that the damage is caused by inflammation from nicotine as well as other chemicals found in vape liquids, such as propylene glycol and vegetable glycerine.

The study comes as the Department of Health and Social Care announced the launch of a ten-year study to investigate the long-term effects of vaping on young people’s health and well-being. The £62 million research project funded by the Research and Innovation will track 100,000 8 to 18-year-olds over a decade.

Professor Lucy Chappell, Chief Scientific Adviser the Department of Health and Social Care said ’’With vaping on the rise amongst young people it is crucial that we develop a solid evidence base to better understand its health impact’’.

As the long-term impact of vaping on the lungs is not known, further research is important. The announcement coincides with The Tobacco and Vapes Bill described as ‘world leading’ and which will clamp down on youth vaping by limiting flavours, packaging and displays deliberately designed to appeal to children.