Vaping To Quit Smoking: Is It Effective?

Although claims have been made that vaping might serve as a gateway to smoking cigarettes, the opposite seems to have been proven true. Vaping can actually help smokers to transition from cigarettes to a healthier alternative nicotine consumption method. Keep reading to find out more about the benefits of vaping and how it can be used as a useful tool to quit smoking cigarettes.

The Health Risk Of Smoking Cigarettes

Smoking cigarettes is linked to a number of well-documented health risks. Some of the many negative effects of smoking include:

• Lung cancer, throat cancer, and oral cancer (there are at least 70 chemicals in cigarette smoke that are known carcinogens) 
• Heart disease
• Oral hygiene issues
• Stroke
• Chronic respiratory conditions such as lung disease, bronchitis, and emphysema
• Second-hand smoke exposure to non-smokers

Different Types Of Vaping Devices And How They Work

Vaporizers, also known as e-cigarettes, are electronic devices that heat e-liquid to produce vapour, which is then inhaled by the user. This e-liquid typically consists of a base (propylene glycol or PG and vegetable glycerin or VG), flavourings, and nicotine. The process of vaping mimics the act of smoking, but does not have any of the harmful byproducts found in traditional cigarettes.

There are a few different types of vaping devices, each catering to different user preferences and needs. The most popular device types include:

• Cigalikes or vape pens: These devices are the most basic type and resemble cigarettes in appearance. They are very easy to use and are usually disposable, making them a good choice for those new to the vaping scene. 

• Pod systems: Pod systems are compact devices that usually focus on simplicity and user-friendliness. They are very convenient and come with the option of refillable and reusable pods, allowing users to switch between flavours and enjoy ease of use.

• Vape mods: These devices are more complex with additional advanced features and customisable options. Mods usually have larger batteries and produce more vapour, but users need to build and DIY a lot more, so advanced vaping knowledge is required. 

• Disposable vapes: Disposables are pre-filled with e-liquid and are designed to be disposed of once it runs out. These are great devices for trying out vaping or new flavours as there are no additional components required.

The Effectiveness Of Vaping In Smoking Cessation

Numerous research studies suggest that vaping can act as a useful harm reduction tool for quitting smoking cigarettes.

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine revealed that e-cigarettes were nearly twice as effective as nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) in helping smokers quit. Participants in the study that used vaping devices had a higher likelihood of staying smoke-free for at least one year compared to those using traditional methods like patches or gum.

Further reinforcing these results, the 2021 Cochrane review provided the most compelling evidence to date on vaping’s role in smoking cessation. After analysing 78 studies, the review concluded with high certainty that individuals who use e-cigarettes are far more likely to quit smoking for at least six months compared to those relying on NRTs.

E-cigarettes offer a unique advantage by addressing both the nicotine addiction and the behavioural habits associated with smoking. For those committed to quitting, vaping does not only serve as a less harmful alternative but also improves the chances of successfully overcoming cigarette dependence.

Health Benefits Of Vaping Compared To Smoking

Although vaping is not entirely risk free as it still contains nicotine, there are a number of health benefits to the practice over smoking traditional cigarettes, including: 

• Respiratory health: Vaping has a much better impact on your respiratory health – whereas traditional smoking produces up to 7000 harmful chemicals, vaping produces none of these harmful byproducts. This reduces the risk of respiratory issues and can even improve lung health when making the switch due to reduced exposure.

• Secondhand smoke: While traditional cigarette smoke poses a harm to non-smokers, leading to an increased risk of developing respiratory issues, heart disease, and cancer, vaping produces vapour that leaves no trace behind and poses no risk to others.

• Customisation: Vaping offers various customisable nicotine options, different airflows, and a variety of flavours that cannot be experienced by smoking traditional cigarettes.

• Overall wellbeing: Making the switch from smoking to vaping can lead to an improvement in overall wellbeing. Many smokers testify feeling better mentally and physically both in the short and long term after they have made the switch. Some of these improvements include improved taste and smell, increased energy levels, and an overall improvement in health.

Potential Challenges When Making The Switch

Switching from traditional cigarettes to vaping can be a challenging process. However, if you set yourself up with the right approach and mindset, you will be in for a rewarding and worth it transition. Some challenges to be aware of include:

• Nicotine cravings: Managing nicotine cravings and withdrawal is one of the biggest struggles ex-smokers face when going through NRT, and while e-liquids are available in various nicotine strengths, it can take some trial and error to find the nicotine concentration that satisfies cravings without leading to overconsumption. If you are a heavy smoker, it is generally advised to go for nic salts as they have a faster absorption rate. Make sure you vape to satisfy your cravings and not just because you can if your point is to reduce nicotine consumption altogether. 

• Breaking habits and routines: Smoking is often a deeply ingrained habit, which means it can be very difficult to break. Vaping helps to mimic the physical act of smoking, which makes it so effective as a NRT, but users should address behavioural aspects of nicotine addiction. This can involve building new routines and mechanisms to replace the act of smoking.

• Social and psychological factors: Support from friends and family is very helpful during the quitting process as they can help you stay committed and motivated throughout your journey. You can also join online communities and forums for encouragement and valuable resources.

Vaping is a valuable smoking cessation tool that can improve your overall health. While it is not completely risk-free, it has a number of benefits over traditional smoking, such as improved respiratory health and no secondhand smoke exposure. Consider giving vaping a try if you are looking into NRTs and join the growing community of vapers who can attest to the benefits of making the switch.