HEALTH

Australia study finds vaping likely raises cancer risk

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A major review led by UNSW Sydney and published in the journal Carcinogenesis concludes that nicotine-based e-cigarettes are likely to cause cancers of the lungs and oral cavity. Drawing on international research, the team included specialists in pharmacy, epidemiology, thoracic surgery and public health from several Australian universities and hospitals, including The University of Queensland, Flinders University, The University of Sydney, Royal North Shore Hospital, The Prince Charles Hospital and Sunshine Coast University Hospital. By integrating clinical monitoring data, animal studies and mechanistic laboratory findings, the authors report consistent evidence that vaping itself, independent of traditional cigarette smoking, is associated with an increased cancer risk.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Recent years, vaping use rises globally
Prior decade, studies focus smoking gateway
Earlier research, limited on carcinogenicity alone
This year, UNSW-led team convenes experts
This year, multi-disciplinary evidence review conducted
This year, findings published in Carcinogenesis journal
Today, authors warn vaping likely carcinogenic

Why This Matters to You

If you vape, this is a wake-up call. The study says vaping, even without traditional cigarettes, can increase cancer risk. It's not just a safer alternative to smoking. Your health could be at risk.

The Bottom Line

The evidence is stacking up. Vaping isn't the safe option many thought. It's linked to lung and oral cancers. Check with your doctor about quitting. And share this with anyone you know who vapes. They should know the risks too.