Adverse effects of vaping on human health: a brief review of mechanisms and long-term consequences

Abstract

Vaping, often advertised as a safe alternative to traditional tobacco smoking, has recently been subjected to active scientific research due to its potential adverse effects on human health. This narrative review synthesises selected recent literature to provide a comprehensive view of the systemic risks associated with the use of electronic cigarettes. It lists key chemical components (propylene glycol, vegetable glycerine, nicotine, and flavourings) and thermal decomposition products of vape aerosol (formaldehyde, acrolein, propylene oxide, glycidol) and evaluates their multi-systemic toxic effects and clinical manifestations, as well as specific effects on the respiratory, cardiovascular, immune, and nervous systems. Current data suggest that vaping can lead to a wide range of acute and chronic diseases, including the e-cigarette or vaping-associated lung injury (EVALI) and obliterative bronchiolitis and increase the risk of developing oncological, cardiovascular, and neurological diseases. Particularly sensitive is the developing adolescent brain. A growing body of evidence indicates that vaping is not "less harmful" but merely "differently" harmful and calls for further long-term research and strengthened public health regulation.