Myths vs Facts About Vaping

Myths vs Facts About Vaping

Over the past decade, vaping has rapidly gained popularity, particularly among former smokers. Along with the surge in popularity came misinformation and sensational headlines, fueling widespread misconceptions about vaping. In this blog we take a look at five of the most common vaping misconceptions. 

Misconception 1: Second-hand vapour is as harmful as second-hand smoke.  

Second-hand smoke is harmful because it contains a toxic mix of chemicals and particles that are released into the air when someone smokes tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, or pipes. Unlike cigarette smoke, which is produced through the combustion of tobacco, vaping devices work by heating a liquid to create an aerosol that is inhaled and exhaled as vapour.

Several studies have shown that the aerosol emitted from e-cigarettes is significantly less harmful than second-hand cigarette smoke. In fact, a 2018 evidence review of e-cigarettes by Public Health England found that there had been no identified health risks of passive vaping to bystanders. 

The impact of second-hand vapour exposure on health is a matter of ongoing research. We encourage all vapers to be respectful of their surroundings. As a rule of thumb, you should not vape in a location where it would not be acceptable to smoke.

Misconception 2: Vaping devices use nicotine, so they’re just as harmful as smoking.

The misconception that vaping is just as harmful as smoking traditional cigarettes stems from the fact that they both contain nicotine, an addictive substance. However, When tobacco is burned in cigarettes, it produces thousands of harmful chemicals, including tar, carbon monoxide, and various carcinogens. In contrast, vaping does not involve combustion, which is the primary cause of the harmful by-products found in cigarette smoke. Instead, they use heating elements or coils to vapourize the e-liquid, eliminating the production of harmful smoke. To erroneously group vaping in with conventional cigarettes is counterproductive to tobacco harm reduction efforts.

Misconception 3: Vaping is a gateway to smoking.

Given the grave dangers of smoking, it is natural to be wary of any potential factors that might encourage its uptake. Concerns have been raised about vaping possibly serving as a gateway to cigarette smoking, particularly for the youth. However, evidence from PHE's comprehensive reviews provides a different perspective.

According to PHE's 2018 evidence review on e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products: “Despite some experimentation with these devices among never smokers, e-cigarettes are attracting very few young people who have never smoked into regular use.” The report also states, “The most common reason for e-cigarette use continues to be in order to stop smoking, and smokers who use e-cigarettes on average have higher motivation to stop smoking than other smokers.”

Misconception 4: Vaping doesn't help people quit smoking.

It is no secret that quitting smoking can be a gruelling and difficult process. Cold turkey cessation, while attempted by many, has relatively low success rates in maintaining long-term abstinence from smoking. In fact, according to the Truth Initiative, 95% of people trying to quit smoking cold turkey fail to do so, with only 3-5% of people succeeding for longer than six months.

An increasingly substantial body of evidence not only indicates that vaping can aid smokers in quitting but also suggests it may be among the most efficacious alternatives. According to a study by the New England Journal of Medicine, e-cigarettes are more effective for smoking cessation than traditional nicotine-replacement therapy.

Misconception 5: Vaping products aren't regulated.

Amid the rising popularity of vaping, a common misconception has taken root—the belief that vaping is not regulated. Contrary to popular belief, the Canadian government has not turned a blind eye to this rapidly growing industry. In fact, stringent measures are in place to regulate the sale, use and advertising of vaping products.

We hope this article has helped dispel some common myths and misconceptions about vaping. If you have additional questions, do not hesitate to contact our knowledgeable team at support@wicksandwires.com or call 905-597-8273.

Question 1: What are vaping myths?

Answer: Vaping myths are false or misleading beliefs about electronic cigarette use, often spread through misinformation or lack of accurate information.

Question 2: Does vaping help people quit smoking?

Answer: Yes, Quitting smoking is challenging and traditional methods often have low success rates. However, research suggests that vaping can aid smokers in quitting.

Question 3: Are all e-liquids safe?

Answer: Not all e-liquids are equally safe. Some may contain harmful chemicals or impurities. Always buy from an authentic store.

Question 4: Is vaping aerosol just water vapour?

Answer: No, vaping aerosol is not just water vapour. It contains various chemicals, including nicotine and flavourings.

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