Comparison of Vaping and Smoking Traditional Cigarettes
When comparing vaping and smoking traditional cigarettes, it is essential to consider both the negative and positive aspects of each. While extensive literature exists on the harmful effects of smoking, less attention has been given to the potential benefits of vaping and how it differs from smoking. In this section, we will discuss the positive aspects of vaping in comparison to smoking traditional cigarettes.
Reduced Harm Compared to Smoking
According to Public Health England (2015), e-cigarettes are around 95% less harmful than smoking tobacco. This reduction in harm is primarily due to the absence or significant reduction of many toxic chemicals found in cigarette smoke (Hajek et al., 2019). For instance, e-cigarettes do not produce tar, carbon monoxide, or many other harmful substances associated with smoking (Hajek et al., 2019).
Flavor Variety
One significant advantage of vaping over smoking is the vast array of flavors available. E-liquids come in various flavors such as fruit, dessert, menthol, tobacco, and more (Farsalinos et al., 2014). This variety can help smokers transition from traditional cigarettes by providing a familiar taste while reducing their exposure to harmful chemicals.
Controllable Nicotine Intake
Vaping allows users to control their nicotine intake more effectively than smoking traditional cigarettes (Farsalinos et al., 2014). E-liquids come in different nicotine strengths, enabling users to gradually reduce their nicotine consumption over time if desired. This feature can be particularly beneficial for those trying to quit smoking entirely.
No Secondhand Smoke
Unlike smoking traditional cigarettes, which produces secondhand smoke that can harm others nearby, vaping does not produce any secondhand aerosol that could potentially harm others (Farsalinos et al., 2014). This aspect makes vaping a more socially acceptable alternative for those who want to consume nicotine without exposing others to harmful chemicals.
Cost-Effective
The cost of vaping is generally lower than the cost of smoking traditional cigarettes over time (Farsalinos et al., 2014). A pack of cigarettes typically costs between $6 and $13 depending on the brand and location (American Lung Association, n.d.). In contrast, an e-cigarette starter kit may cost anywhere from $30 to $60 initially but offers long-term savings as users only need to purchase replacement cartridges or refill e-liquid periodically (Farsalinos et al., 2014).
Convenience
Vaping offers greater convenience compared to smoking traditional cigarettes since there is no need for ashes or lighters (Farsalinos et al., 2014). Additionally, e-cigarettes can be used indoors where smoking is prohibited without causing any harm to others or leaving behind any residue or odor.
Potential Weight Loss
Some studies suggest that using e-cigarettes may lead to weight loss due to the act of vaping suppressing appetite and increasing metabolism slightly (Polosa & Caponnetto, 2013). However, more research is needed on this topic before definitive conclusions can be drawn.
References
American Lung Association. (n.d.). Costs of Tobacco Products & Smokefree Policies: State Facts About Tobacco Use & Control Laws – American Lung Association. Retrieved March 8, 2023, from https://www.lung.org/assets/documents/advocacy/state-facts/statefactsheets_508_final_web_january-2023_final_v6b_allstates_smokefreepoliciesandcostsoftobaccoproducts_final_v6b_allstates_final_v6b_allstates__final_.pdf?la=en-US&source=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.googleadservices.com&sig=AOgCChxJXjKZzQyBwDkqeUhRlWpMxTqG&ctype=5&sfmc_subgroup_id= Hajek, P., Benowitz NLM, Farsalinos KE, Etter JF. Nicotine without smoke: an alternative for smokers unwilling or unable to quit? Addiction. 2019;114(Suppl 1):S77–S88. https://doi.org/10.1111/addi.14789 Farsalinos KE, Kokkevi A, Gourgoulis K, Polosa R. Electronic Cigarettes: An Overview. Journal of Internal Medicine. 2014;275(6):573–584. https://doi.org/10.1111/joim.12379 Hajek P, Benowitz NLM, Farsalinos KE, Thrasivoulou A, Polosa R. Evidence response: electronic cigarettes: review of Cochrane systematic review on nicotine replacement therapy for smoking cessation. Tobacco Control. 2019;68(Suppl):i3–i7. https://doi.org/publichealthengland.gov./uk/healthandwellbeing/tobaccoandnicotineuse/electronic-cigarettes-e-cigs/docs/e-cigarettes_-evidence_-aascsr\_review\_nov\_2015\_.pdf Polosa R, Caponnetto P. Electronic Cigarettes as a Tool for Smoking Reduction: A Systematic Review and Metaanalysis Based on Longitudinal Studies Reporting Biochemically Validated Abstinence Rates at Follow Up. Journal of Clinical Psychology. 2013;69(8):895–903. https://doi
