Vaping While Still Smoking Unlikely to Help Quitters
The Concerning Results of Dual Use
A new study has found that people who vape while still smoking cigarettes are less likely to successfully quit than those who only do one or the other. The study, published in the journal ERJ Open Research, reviewed existing data on smoking and vaping before combining the results.
Low Quit Rates among Dual Users
The researchers found that after four to eight months, only 3% of dual users quit smoking. In comparison, 8% of people who exclusively vaped quit, while 6% of those who only smoked cigarettes managed to kick the habit. Even after 16 to 24 months, dual users had a lower quit rate, with 13% quitting, compared to 26% of vapers and 17% of smokers.
Long-term Consequences
The study also showed that two years after starting to vape and smoke, 58% of dual users had gone back to just smoking cigarettes. This raises concerns about the long-term health effects of vaping.
The Controversy Surrounding Vaping
The World Health Organization and anti-smoking groups have refused to assert that vaping is less harmful than smoking, citing the precautionary principle and saying more evidence is needed. E-cigarettes, which have become increasingly popular in recent years, do not contain tobacco but instead a liquid normally filled with nicotine that is inhaled as vapour. Because there is no tar, carbon monoxide, or other toxic elements linked to smoking, the health risks of vaping are considered to be much lower.
Avoiding the Youth Problem
Fearing young people taking up vaping en masse, some countries have moved to ban e-cigarettes, or at least prohibiting disposable versions or kid-friendly flavors. However, many medical researchers have called for vaping to remain legal as a tool for quitting smoking – while doing everything possible to stop young people from taking up either habit.
The Future of Nicotine Replacement Therapy
A 2022 Cochrane review, considered the gold standard for analyzing available knowledge, found strong evidence that e-cigarettes are more effective for quitting smoking than nicotine patches or gum. As the debate surrounding vaping continues, it is clear that more research is needed to fully understand its effects on public health.
FAQs
* What is the main finding of the study?
The study found that people who vape while still smoking are less likely to quit than those who only smoke or vape.
* What are the long-term consequences of dual use?
The study found that 58% of dual users went back to just smoking cigarettes after two years.
* What is the current stance of the World Health Organization and anti-smoking groups on vaping?
They have refused to assert that vaping is less harmful than smoking, citing the precautionary principle and saying more evidence is needed.