The CDC is working with state and local health departments to investigate the recent outbreak of lung disease associated with vaping. As of September 2019,
380 cases of this lung illness had been reported, from 36 states and one US territory. Subjects in all the reported cases had a history of vaping.
However, other vaping health risks are better understood. Nicotine is the primary substance in both traditional and electronic cigarettes, and it has been shown to increase the risk of cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung diseases, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Along with nicotine, vaping liquids contain additives such as propylene glycol and glycerol. These toxic chemicals have been linked to cancer, respiratory disease, and heart disease. Scientists have also found that diacetyl, a chemical used to flavor some vape juice, may cause a condition called “popcorn lung,” the scarring and obstruction of the lungs’ smallest airways. In addition, a
study found that some common chemicals used to flavor vape juice could damage endothelial cells. These are the cells that line blood vessels and lymph vessels.
Furthermore, experts believe that long-term exposure to the toxic substances in e-cigarette vapor, such as nickel, tin, lead, benzene and formaldehyde, could increase the risk of cancer. A study published in the journal Pediatrics
found substantially increased levels of five carcinogenic compounds in the urine of teenagers who vape. Hence, increased likelihood of cancer may prove to be one of the most significant vaping health risks.