Vaping linked to adult wheezing in latest e-cigarette health study

A new study has revealed a link between using electronic cigarettes and wheezing in adults. According to the findings, adults who 'vaped' were twice as likely to have issues with wheezing compared to people who didn't use these products. This is the latest study to highlight potential health issues associated with vaping devices, which are used with a liquid nicotine solution.

The research was recently published in the journal Tobacco Control, where researchers detail a concerning link between e-cigarettes and potential lung damage. The long-term effects of these devices are unknown, but past research has indicated that the vapor — and specifically, the flavorings used in many of these liquids — may lead to future lung problems.

Based on data from more than 28,000 US participants, the study found that adults vapers were 1.7x more likely to have problems with wheezing and trouble breathing compared to others. This doesn't necessarily mean the wheezing was caused by the vaping, but the link is a strong one and, according to the researchers, consistent with past research on the health effects of vaping.

Talking about the work is the study's author Deborah J. Ossip, PhD, who explained:

The take-home message is that electronic cigarettes are not safe when it comes to lung health. The changes we're seeing with vaping, both in laboratory experiments and studies of people who vape, are consistent with early signs of lung damage, which is very worrisome.

Though electronic cigarettes are often presented as a 'healthy' alternative to traditional tobacco cigarettes, officials have cautioned that the long-term health effects of these devices are unknown. A growing body of research points toward potential health issues, including damage to the cells in one's mouth, lung inflammation, and more.