A comprehensive review by researchers at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney has concluded that nicotine-based e-cigarettes are likely carcinogenic to humans. The findings, published in the journal Carcinogenesis, synthesize evidence from cellular and animal studies, indicating that vaping can cause DNA damage and mutations similar to those caused by tobacco smoke.
The research team, led by UNSW cancer researcher Associate Professor B. (Behrooz) Z. Alizadeh, analyzed existing scientific literature. They found that the nicotine in e-cigarettes, along with other chemicals produced during the heating process, can induce biological changes known to lead to cancer. The review highlights that while long-term human data is still being gathered, the preclinical evidence is strong enough to warrant significant public health concern.
Public health experts have pointed to this research as critical evidence in the ongoing debate over e-cigarette safety. They emphasize that the findings challenge the perception of vaping as a harmless alternative to smoking, particularly for non-smokers and young people. Regulatory bodies continue to assess the long-term health impacts of vaping products.
