Myth 1: E-cigarettes are just as harmful as cigarettes
Research from Public Health England states that e-cigarettes (also known as vapes) are at least 95% less harmful than cigarettes.
Tobacco smoke contains harmful substances such as tar and carbon monoxide, which cause serious health problems. E-cigarette vapour does not contain these substances, making vaping a much safer option.
Myth 2: E-cigarettes contain nicotine, so they’re still bad for you
Nicotine is the addictive substance in cigarettes, but it is not the main cause of smoking-related diseases. The thousands of toxic chemicals in cigarettes cause the most harm, not nicotine itself.
E-cigarettes allow users to control their nicotine intake. Many people gradually reduce their nicotine levels when vaping by choosing lower-strength e-liquids or nicotine-free options.
For most people, nicotine is not a major health risk. However, it does increase heart rate, which may be a concern for people with heart conditions.
Myth 3: Switching to vaping doesn’t help you quit smoking
Some people continue to vape without quitting nicotine completely, but research shows that vaping can be an effective way to quit smoking.
A major UK-based clinical trial found that people who use e-cigarettes alongside face-to-face support to quit smoking are twice as likely to quit smoking as those who only use other stop smoking products, such as nicotine patches or gum.
Using an e-cigarette can be a stepping stone to becoming completely smokefree. The key is to see it as a tool to quit, rather than a replacement for smoking.
Myth 4: E-cigarettes are good for you
While e-cigarettes are a lot safer than smoking tobacco, they are not risk-free. They contain fewer toxins and chemicals than cigarettes, but they are not beneficial to health.
Vapes should be used as a tool to quit smoking, and people who don’t smoke shouldn’t take up vaping.
Some research suggests that vaping may contribute to heart and lung issues in some people. However, cases of serious harm have mostly been linked to unregulated ‘black market’ e-liquids and modified devices.
The UK has strict safety standards for e-cigarettes. Ensure you buy e-cigarettes and e-liquids from reputable sources. If unsure, visit a licensed vape shop to get advice on trusted brands and devices.
