E-cigarettes not save as many believe, Australian researchers warn

A new Australian medical study has warned that the use of e-cigarettes may significantly increase the risk of developing both lung and mouth cancer, challenging the widespread belief that vaping is a safer alternative to smoking.

Many users of e-cigarettes assume that vaping does not cause serious health complications. However, researchers now say that nicotine and other substances present in vaping products may contribute to cancer risk.

The findings come from a study conducted by the University of New South Wales, which examined existing research on the health effects of e-cigarette use. The team reviewed a wide range of previous studies and concluded that vaping can potentially make users more susceptible to cancer.

According to the study, e-cigarettes may directly increase the risk of both lung cancer and mouth cancer, with researchers describing the work as one of the most comprehensive analyses conducted on the subject so far.

The researchers said their review challenges the widely held perception that e-cigarettes are harmless in terms of cancer risk. They added that while the evidence is strong, further clinical trials involving human participants are still needed to fully confirm the findings.

The study also suggested that e-cigarette use could increase the risk of lung cancer by up to four times, based on currently available data.

Researchers further noted that although vaping is often promoted as a tool to help smokers quit traditional cigarettes and reduce cancer risk, the evidence does not support the assumption that it is risk-free.

The findings have been published in the journal Carcinogenesis, adding to growing global debate over the long-term health impacts of vaping products.