Vaping, often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, is gaining popularity globally, including in India, where it is banned.

New studies have now shown that vaping has immediate effects on the body’s vascular health, even though e-cigarettes do not contain nicotine.

Most people quit smoking due to nicotine addiction and resort to vaping. According to the American Lung Association, the liquid used in vaping contains chemicals such as nicotine, propylene glycol, glycerin, flavor and aroma transporters, among other substances.

However, researchers are now pointing out that even though vape, an electronic device for inhaling mist into the lungs, does not contain nicotine, it still has negative effects on the body.

A study presented at the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) in Chicago showed that vaping affects blood flow and oxygen levels in the body.

The researchers found a significant decrease in resting blood flow velocity and venous oxygen saturation in the femoral artery after vaping. This indicates that vaping, like traditional smoking, can reduce the lungs’ ability to take in oxygen.

Dr. Marianne Naibout, lead author of the study, highlighted that although vaping may expose users to less harmful chemicals than traditional cigarettes, it is not risk-free. “The acute effects of vaping can manifest immediately in the body’s vascular system. Long-term use can potentially lead to vascular diseases,” he said.

Vaping trend in India

About 27% of India’s population consumes some form of tobacco, making the country the largest tobacco market globally due to its huge population.

While India banned the sale of e-cigarettes in 2019 to curb the rising trend of vaping among youth, the practice continues through illegal channels and online platforms.

The ban was intended to address concerns about nicotine addiction and the appeal of flavored e-cigarettes, particularly among youth populations. However, enforcement remains a challenge, and vaping devices are still accessible.

A study titled ‘Teens and e-cigarettes in India: A qualitative study of perceptions and practices’ published by the National Library of Medicine in September 2022 highlighted the vaping culture among teens.

This revealed that e-cigarettes are often considered relatively harmless due to a lack of awareness about its harmful health effects.

The study noted, “The beginning was influenced by a friend, coworker, or sibling. The variety of flavors, the aftertaste, the ability to perform playful tricks with the smoke, and the fun times spent with friends have led to continued use.” were cited as reasons.” ,

Globally, studies show that vaping has increased rapidly among former smokers, with many using it as a tool to quit traditional cigarettes.

In England, one in five former smokers reported vaping in 2024, a figure largely driven by the availability of disposable e-cigarettes. In India, where tobacco use is already a significant public health issue, vaping adds another layer of concern.

Effect on fertility

While vaping poses a threat to the lungs and blood vessels, it also affects reproductive health.

Dr Chandana Narayan, senior consultant at Kinder Hospitals, Bangalore, warned about the long-term health effects of vaping. “Prolonged use of vaping devices not only affects the respiratory system but also has serious effects on reproductive health,” he told IndiaToday.in.

In men, vaping may reduce sperm quality, affecting fertility. For women, the endocrine-disrupting chemicals in vaping liquids can cause irregular menstruation and complications during pregnancy.

“Women who are trying to conceive or are already pregnant are advised to avoid vaping altogether due to potential risks such as developmental disruptions and ovulatory dysfunction,” Dr. Narayan said.

The expert said that despite the ban, awareness about the dangers of vaping is low in India.

Public health experts stress the need for education and strict enforcement of regulations.