Rethinking Vaping Safety

Study Reviews Health Effects of E-Cigarette Use

TDT | Manama

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April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, which highlights the importance of oral health and early detection. This year, it comes amid raising concerns that vaping may be linked to cancer risk, with researchers examining how e-cigarettes may affect the mouth and lungs at a cellular level.

Latest is a study from the University of New South Wales, Sydney, which adds to a growing body of research challenging the idea that vaping is a “safer” alternative to smoking.

What stood out most in the study was that although vapes don’t contain tar or carbon monoxide, chemicals in vape aerosol, including nicotine-derived compounds, flavouring agents, volatile organic compounds, and trace metals can damage tissues in the mouth and lungs, causing inflammation and stress, and potentially increasing long-term cancer risk.

Awareness

In a discussion with The Daily tribune regarding oral cancer awareness, Dr Nadia AlSikri, Consultant, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Salmaniya Medical Complex said, " Even occasional vaping is not risk-free. While heavy and prolonged use increases exposure and risk, intermittent use can still introduce harmful chemicals into the oral environment.”

“Recent research suggests that vaping aerosols contain carcinogenic substances that may damage oral tissues and DNA. While the link is not as well established as with smoking, there is growing concern about its role in developing oral cancer. More long-term studies are still needed”, she notes.

Screening

In light of oral cancer awareness month observed every April, Dr Nadia further explains that individuals who vape should ideally have oral examinations every 6 months. Those with additional risk factors may benefit from more frequent screenings as advised by their dentist. Screening involves a thorough visual and physical examination of the mouth, tongue, gums, and throat. Dentists look for abnormal lesions, colour changes, or ulcers, and may palpate tissues for lumps. 

She also noted that “some early changes, such as inflammation or irritation, may improve after stopping vaping. However, precancerous or cancerous changes related to oral cancer may not be fully reversible, highlighting the importance of early detection”.