With the rapid rise of vapes (e-cigarettes), they’re often promoted as a “healthier alternative” or even a “smoking cessation solution.” But how realistic are these claims? Do vape really help smokers quit, or do they simply introduce new health risks?
This guide will analyze the real pros and cons of vape, based on reliable research, to help you make an informed choice.
1. Vapes vs Traditional Cigarettes
How Do E-Cigs Work?
E-cigs heat up a liquid (e-liquid or vape juice) that usually contains nicotine, propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, and flavourings. Instead of smoke, this process produces a vapor that you can inhale.
- Key Ingredients: Nicotine, VG, PG and flavourings.
- Main Difference: There’s no tar or other nasty stuff in vapes that you get with tobacco cigarettes.
A study by University College London (28,000+ smokers) found that vapes release way fewer harmful chemicals compared to cigarettes.
When you smoke a cigarette, it makes over 7,000 chemicals, and at least 69 of them are known to cause cancer. E-cigs avoid the burning process, so you’re exposed to way less toxins.
The WHO and the CDC say vaping is about 5% as harmful as smoking, and it can help adult smokers to cut down.
Nicotine Dependency Still Exists
Cigarettes and vapes both deliver nicotine, which is addictive.
Unlike with tobacco, vapes let you choose nicotine levels (e.g. 3mg/ml, 5mg/ml), which makes it possible to gradually cut down.
But here’s the catch: fruit or menthol flavours make vaping attractive to younger users, which is raising concerns about nicotine addiction among non-smokers.
2. Can vapes really help you quit smoking?
√ The “Buffer” Effect
Vaping is a lot like smoking in the way it feels when you’re taking a drag, which can help with symptoms like stress or not being able to focus. Studies show that 30% of smokers cut down on cigarettes within 6 months of switching to vaping.
A trial in the UK found that e-cigarettes combined with counseling led to a 12.7% success rate in quitting, which is much higher than going cold turkey.
√ Long-Term Results Are Mixed
A Lancet report said that only about 1% of vapers fully stop smoking nicotine for good. Vapes only reduce their smoking
How to Approach Vaping Rationally
- Non-smokers: Don’t start. There’s no health benefit in picking up vaping.
- Current smokers: Vaping can be a short-term harm reduction tool but should not be the end goal.
Conclusion: Less Harmful ≠ Harmless
Yes, vapes are less harmful than cigarettes, but they are not harmless and not a guaranteed quit-smoking tool.
Pro Tip for Current Users
If you’re already vaping and want a cleaner, smoother experience, choosing a high-quality device matters.
For example, the GOWIF MY WORLD POD system and GOWIF CHILL disposable vape are designed with advanced ceramic coils and icy-fresh flavour options—offering a smoother draw and longer-lasting satisfaction.
