Which is more Dangerous, Electronic Cigarettes or Sticks?

The problem of smoking is endless in the country. Various methods have been taken to reduce the number of smokers, starting from scary pictures on packages, eliminating cigarette displays in outlets, and a number of alternative cigarettes. Among these smoking alternatives, there is one that has sparked controversy, namely the use of electronic cigarettes (vapes).

A lung specialist, Dr Gatut Priyonugroho, SpP, emphasized that the dangers of electronic cigarettes are basically the same as the dangers of conventional cigarettes. Because both contain combustion, the impact on the risk of lung cancer is similar. “Electric cigarettes have not been researched as much as regular cigarettes. "It's just suspected that it also causes cancer because of similar substances," he explained in an online discussion at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia (FKUI) regarding chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer, Thursday (25/11/2021).

“The ingredients that are burned, what comes out is roughly the same. There's arsenic too, there's also PAH (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons), so it's the same. Just like we burn anything. "There are leaves, there are twigs, we burn them, that's roughly the same thing that comes out like that," he continued. Until now, there have been no scientific research results regarding the comparison of the effects of e-cigarettes with conventional cigarettes.

However, according to Dr. Gatut, the dangers of electronic cigarettes and conventional cigarettes are actually similar to inhaling the smoke of burned objects. The difference is, burnt smoke from cigarettes is like being 'swallowed whole' so the effect is greater. "The difference is that when we smoke, we deliberately, with intention, with effort we put the smoke in the droplets, we put it into our lungs. "The difference is that if you burn it outside, there is a distance and not much will come in, just a little," he explained.

“Actually, from the burning results, it is very similar to cigarettes. It's just that the level of scientific evidence is not as strong as regular cigarettes because it hasn't been around for a long time. "To study a large number of samples, there are not enough subjects," concluded Dr. Gatut.

Electric Cigarettes: The Basics

Effect of Vaping

Electric cigarettes, commonly referred to as e-cigarettes or vaping devices, have gained popularity over the past decade as an alternative to traditional smoking. These battery-operated devices heat a liquid solution, typically containing nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals, to create an aerosol that users inhale. E-cigarettes come in various shapes and sizes, often resembling pens or USB drives, and are available in a range of flavors.

The Potential Dangers of Electric Cigarettes

The Potential Danger of Electric Cigarettes

Health Risks:

E-cigarettes have been promoted as a less harmful alternative to traditional smoking, primarily because they eliminate the combustion process responsible for producing many harmful chemicals found in tobacco smoke. However, they are not without health risks of their own. The aerosol produced by e-cigarettes may still contain harmful chemicals and ultrafine particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs, leading to respiratory issues.

Nicotine Addiction:

Electric cigarettes deliver nicotine, an addictive substance, to the user. Many e-cigarette users, especially young people, become addicted to nicotine, which can have long-term health consequences and make it challenging to quit vaping.

Youth Appeal:

E-cigarettes have become popular among young people, raising concerns about their potential to serve as a gateway to smoking traditional cigarettes. The appealing flavors and marketing tactics used by e-cigarette companies have contributed to this trend.

Lack of Long-Term Research:

Due to their relatively recent introduction to the market, there is limited long-term research on the health effects of e-cigarettes. It may take years or even decades to fully understand the consequences of prolonged e-cigarette use.

Traditional Cigarettes: The Well-Known Dangers

Traditional cigarettes have been extensively studied, and their health risks are well-documented. Smoking tobacco cigarettes is a leading cause of preventable deaths worldwide and is linked to various health issues, including:

Lung Cancer:

Smoking is the primary cause of lung cancer, accounting for the majority of cases. The tar and toxic chemicals in tobacco smoke can damage lung tissue and lead to the development of cancerous cells.

Cardiovascular Diseases:

Smoking significantly increases the risk of heart diseases, including heart attacks and stroke. The harmful substances in tobacco smoke can damage blood vessels and promote the build-up of plaque in arteries.

Respiratory Problems:

Traditional cigarettes can cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions. Smoking impairs lung function and reduces the body's ability to combat infections.

Conclusion

In the comparison between electric cigarettes and traditional cigarettes, it is clear that both carry health risks, albeit of different magnitudes and natures. While e-cigarettes may be less harmful than traditional cigarettes due to their lack of combustion, they are not without their own dangers, especially when it comes to nicotine addiction and the potential for respiratory issues. Traditional cigarettes, on the other hand, are a well-established health hazard and are responsible for a wide range of life-threatening diseases.

Ultimately, the best choice for one's health is to avoid both electric and traditional cigarettes altogether. If you are a smoker looking to quit, seek support and resources to help you on your journey to a smoke-free life. It is essential to stay informed about the potential risks associated with these products and make informed decisions about your health.

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