Is Vaping a Better Alternative to Cigarettes? An International Survey

Abstract

Background:

Vaping has gained popularity globally. Touted as a better alternative to cigarettes, many questions remain regarding its safety. Of particular concern are the various chemicals and substances that may adversely affect the cardiopulmonary system. Undoubtedly, people have different opinions about vaping. The aim of the study was to determine the perception on vaping as better and safer alternative to cigarettes.

Methods:

For this cross-sectional study, a survey (Google Forms) with 52 items was distributed via social media and other forms of digital communication to participants at least 12 years of age worldwide between February and April 2022. The survey included items to evaluate demographics, smoking history, vaping history, vaping opinions, and health history. Excel (Microsoft) was used to tabulate the information and report descriptive statistics. IRB approval was obtained.

Results:

Data was collected from 304 participants. Most respondents were female (71%; n = 216). While ages ranged from 12 to 74, the majority of participants were 18-24 (n = 110; 36.2%) and 25-34 (n = 113, 37.2%). Most respondents originated from North America (70.1%, n = 213) with most the remaining participants from either Europe (18.8%; n = 57) or Asia (7.9%; n = 24). Out of the 304 participants in the study, 20.4% (n = 62) reported vaping usage. Of the 62 participants who reported smoking, 46.7% had a great experience vaping, and were unlikely to smoke cigarettes again. In fact, 48.4% of vapers reported quitting cigarettes altogether (n = 30) while another 24.2% (n = 15) never smoked cigarettes in the past. Only 5% of vaping participants (n = 3) quit vaping and returned to cigarettes. When asked if they thought vaping is a better/healthier alternative to cigarettes, 54.5% answered no, 23.1% answered yes, and 22.4% answered unsure. Seventy-three percent of the vapers reported the following symptoms: chronic cough, recurrent respiratory infections, wheezing, shortness of breath, and/or chest tightness.

Conclusions:

The results of this survey suggest that most participants believe that vaping is neither better nor a safer alternative to cigarettes. While the scientific evidence confirms this opinion, advertisement continues to portray vaping as a better and even a safer alternative to cigarettes.