Vaping, often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, has been found to have immediate negative impacts on the body’s circulation, even without nicotine. A new study reveals that vaping significantly affects blood vessels and can reduce oxygen intake by the lungs. This challenges the common belief that e-cigarettes are free of harmful effects.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania studied 31 healthy smokers and vapers, aged 21 to 49, to assess the acute effects of both smoking and vaping on vascular function. The participants underwent MRI exams before and after smoking or vaping, with a particular focus on blood flow in the femoral artery, which supplies oxygenated blood to the lower body.
The results showed a significant decrease in blood flow velocity in the femoral artery following both smoking and vaping, with the most pronounced effects after using nicotine-containing e-cigarettes. Even without nicotine, e-cigarettes still caused reduced blood flow and oxygen saturation levels in the body.
Study lead author Dr. Marianne Nabbout of the University of Arkansas stressed that although e-cigarettes contain fewer toxins than traditional cigarettes, they still have a damaging effect on vascular health. This immediate decline in circulation suggests that long-term use could contribute to vascular diseases.
The study also found that vaping reduces venous oxygen saturation, meaning the blood returning to the heart after circulating through the body contains less oxygen. This decrease in oxygen levels is concerning as it directly affects the body’s ability to perform basic functions.
While e-cigarettes are often marketed as a safer alternative, Dr. Nabbout warned that their impact on circulation and oxygen uptake could have long-term consequences. “Even without nicotine, the other chemicals in e-cigarettes may still cause harm,” she said, emphasizing the need for further research on the chronic effects of vaping.
The study serves as a reminder that vaping is not without risk, and public health guidelines should reflect these findings. Dr. Nabbout urges people to avoid both smoking and vaping for optimal health.
This article was written with the assistance of artificial intelligence.
