E-cigarettes, otherwise known as vapes, have become increasingly popular. Many people believe that e-cigarettes are ‘less damaging’ for you than traditional cigarette smoking. With a rise in vaping by Australians, particularly among young people, it’s important to understand the long-term health risks.

Even though e-cigarettes do not contain tobacco many liquids still contain nicotine, which is highly addictive, as well as other chemicals. These chemicals can be toxic when they are inhaled.

E-cigarettes can serve as a “gateway” to nicotine addiction and tobacco cigarette smoking. There have been many studies that found experimentation with e-cigarettes encouraged the use of tobacco cigarettes, particularly among young people. Research of e-liquids available to purchase over the counter in Australia found 1 in 5 contain nicotine, among a concoction of other toxic chemicals – all had inaccurate labelling. With the inclusion of fruit, alcohol and confectionary flavours, e-cigarettes are designed to appeal to young people. Experts are concerned these products will create another generation of nicotine addiction and a rise in serious health issues including lung disease and cancer.

Vaping is unsafe and potentially dangerous with unclear long-term effects. If you, your teenage child, or a loved one is vaping and you’re not completely sure if it’s actually safe or not, come and chat further with your GP about this. It’s never too late to discuss a plan of action and ensure you’re not setting up your body, brain and future for permanent harm.

Our GPs can chat to you or your teenage child today about vaping and the misinformation being spread about it by the vaping industry. Book online to chat to one of our doctors at dfmp.com.au or call us today on 9651 2077.