The Hidden Dangers of Vaping: What You Need to Know

BY LAURIE KIENLEN

This blog is an extract from ‘A Better You’ March 2025 edition. 

Vaping is often marketed as a “safer” alternative to smoking, but the reality is far more complex. While e-cigarettes may not contain tobacco, they still pose serious health risks—especially for young people. If you or someone you know vapes, it’s essential to understand the hidden dangers and make informed choices about your health.

At Independent Pharmacies of Australia, we believe in providing accurate health information to help Australians make better decisions. Here’s what you need to know about vaping and its impact on your body.

1. What Is Vaping?

Vaping involves inhaling a vapour produced by an electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) or vape device. These devices heat a liquid—often called e-liquid or vape juice—that contains nicotine, flavourings, and other chemicals. Unlike traditional cigarettes, vaping doesn’t involve burning tobacco, but that doesn’t mean it’s risk-free.

Common Ingredients in Vape Liquid:

• Nicotine – Highly addictive and harmful to brain development.
• Propylene Glycol & Glycerine – Used to create vapour, but may irritate the lungs.
• Flavouring Chemicals – Some contain toxic compounds linked to lung disease.

2. The Health Risks of Vaping

Despite being promoted as a safer alternative to smoking, vaping still carries significant health risks, including:

Lung Damage

• Chemicals in vape aerosol can cause inflammation and long-term lung damage.
• Studies link vaping to bronchitis, asthma, and chronic lung conditions.

Nicotine Addiction

• Many vape products contain higher levels of nicotine than cigarettes.
• Nicotine rewires the brain, making quitting even harder.
• Young people who vape are three times more likely to take up smoking.

Heart and Blood Vessel Damage

• Vaping increases heart rate and blood pressure, leading to a higher risk of heart disease and stroke.

Chemical Exposure

• Some vape liquids contain heavy metals like lead and cadmium, which can damage the nervous system.

3. Is Vaping Safer Than Smoking?

While vaping may be less harmful than traditional smoking, it is not safe. Many people mistakenly believe that because vaping doesn’t produce tar like cigarettes, it’s harmless. However, research shows that vaping exposes users to toxic chemicals, many of which can cause long-term damage.

Myth: Vaping is just “water vapour.”

Truth: The vapour from e-cigarettes contains harmful substances, including carcinogens and toxins.

Myth: Vaping helps you quit smoking.

Truth: While some people use vaping as a quit-smoking aid, many become addicted to vaping instead and continue using nicotine.

4. Vaping and Teen Health Risks

Vaping has become alarmingly popular among Australian teenagers, with studies showing a rapid increase in use among high school students. The dangers for young people include:

Brain Development: The brain is still developing until around age 25. Nicotine can affect memory, attention, and learning ability.

Increased Risk of Mental Health Issues: Vaping is linked to higher rates of anxiety and depression in young users.

Gateway to Smoking: Young people who vape are more likely to take up smoking later in life.

5. How to Quit Vaping

Quitting vaping can be challenging, but it’s never too late to stop. Here are some practical tips to help you or a loved one quit:

Find Support

• Speak to your local IPA pharmacist or healthcare professional about quit strategies.
• Call Quitline (13 78 48) for free support.

Identify Triggers

• Recognise situations that make you want to vape and avoid them.
• Keep your hands and mouth busy with gum, water, or stress-relief tools.

Use Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)

• Products like nicotine patches, lozenges, and gums can help reduce cravings.

Set a Quit Date and Stick to It

• Make a plan and tell supportive friends and family.
• Celebrate small wins—every day without vaping is a victory!

Final Thoughts

Vaping may seem trendy or harmless, but it carries real health risks—especially for young people. If you or someone you love is struggling with nicotine addiction, support is available. Click here to learn more about our ‘Quit Smoking Services.’

Visit Your Local IPA Pharmacy for Expert Advice

Your local Independent Pharmacy of Australia is here to help you on your journey to quit vaping and improve your health.

Find your nearest IPA pharmacy HERE!

Follow us on social media for more health tips!

• Facebook – Independent Pharmacies Australia
• Instagram – @independent.pharmacies

Who Are IPA Pharmacists?

IPA Pharmacists are part of Australia’s largest network of independent pharmacies. They offer personalised healthcare and expertise in medicines. They specialise in various health aspects, such as sleep and diabetes, and are dedicated to supporting your wellness journey. With a network of over 1,100 pharmacies and growing, an IPA pharmacy near you is ready to provide exceptional advice, services, and products to enhance your health outcomes.

Important Information

The information provided on this website is shared in good faith for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of any specific treatment, product, or service, nor is it a substitute for professional advice. Always consult with qualified professionals regarding matters related to your health, wellbeing, or other personal concerns. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information, we cannot accept responsibility for any injury, loss, damage, or consequences resulting from its use.