Chicago: A new study has revealed that vaping – even without nicotine – can immediately affect blood vessel function and reduce oxygen levels in the body.
Presented at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America in Chicago, the research shows that vaping, whether using nicotine or not, can decrease venous oxygen saturation, which indicates that the lungs are absorbing less oxygen.
Although the study has not yet been peer-reviewed, the findings suggest that regular vaping could potentially lead to vascular issues in the future.
Vaping Not as Safe as Many Believe
Dr. Marianne Nabbout, the lead researcher from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, explained that many people wrongly assume that e-cigarettes are safer than traditional tobacco cigarettes. However, her study indicates that e-cigarettes, while free of cancer-causing contaminants found in tobacco smoke, still expose users to harmful chemicals.
Chemical Exposure in E-Cigarette Vapor
E-cigarettes work by heating liquid to create vapor, but this vapor can contain harmful substances such as lead, nickel, formaldehyde, and glycerin. According to Nabbout, even when there’s no nicotine, these substances can have negative effects on vascular health.
Study Methodology
The researchers examined the effects of smoking and vaping on 31 participants, aged 21 to 49, who either smoked, vaped, or used both. They compared the results to 10 non-smokers.
Participants underwent MRI scans before and after vaping or smoking. The study also involved restricting blood flow using a cuff on the thigh and measuring blood flow and oxygen levels in the femoral artery.
Potential Long-Term Health Risks
While the study primarily shows immediate effects on blood vessels and oxygen levels, the researchers warn that more studies are needed to understand the long-term health consequences of vaping. The results suggest that regular vaping could increase the risk of vascular diseases over time.
