New Research Highlights Cancer Risks of Nicotine-Containing Vapes
A recent Australian review has raised serious concerns about the health risks associated with vapes containing nicotine. According to the study, these devices are likely to contribute to the development of lung and oral cancers. The research, led by the University of New South Wales (UNSW), compiled a range of evidence including mouse studies, case reports, biomarker studies in humans, and chemical analyses of vape ingredients.
Bernard Stewart, the lead author of the review and a cancer researcher at UNSW, emphasized that this study provides “by far the strongest evidence” linking vapes to cancer. While many previous studies have compared vaping to smoking, this review specifically examined whether vapes alone could cause cancer. Dr. Stewart noted that there are relatively few studies directly examining the cancer risk of vaping, which makes the findings particularly significant.
Broader Health Impacts of Vaping
Beyond cancer, the researchers found that vaping is associated with a variety of other health issues, challenging the perception that it is a safer alternative to smoking. This has prompted experts to call for stricter regulations on black market vapes and increased public awareness about the potential harm they pose.
The review analyzed studies from 2017 to 2025, comparing the cancer risk in non-smokers who use nicotine vapes with those who have never used them. It also looked at biological markers such as oxidative stress, epigenetic changes, and inflammation. One case study involved a 19-year-old man with an extensive history of vaping who developed oral cavity cancer.
Dr. Stewart pointed to a study showing lung cancer in mice exposed to e-cigarette aerosols as one of the clearest pieces of evidence linking vaping to cancer. However, he acknowledged that epidemiological evidence connecting vaping to cancer is still lacking, citing the relatively short time vapes have been on the market—only 20 years compared to the 100 years it took to prove smoking causes cancer.
The Challenge of Definitive Proof
Becky Freeman, a public health researcher at the University of Sydney, highlighted the need to minimize future harm by supporting people to quit vaping and reducing supply. She explained that while long-term studies are necessary to confirm the link between vaping and cancer, such research takes decades.
Are Nicotine-Free Vapes Safer?
The review focused exclusively on nicotine-containing vapes, but experts stressed that this does not mean nicotine-free options are safe. In 2024, the federal government strengthened legislation so that vapes—both with and without nicotine—can only be sold legally in pharmacies for the purpose of helping people quit smoking or manage nicotine dependence.
Despite this, a large number of vapes are still sold through the black market. Alexander Larcombe, a senior research fellow at Curtin University, pointed out that most black market vapes contain nicotine, even if the labels do not indicate this. He warned that users may unknowingly inhale nicotine and become addicted.
Dr. Larcombe also highlighted the lack of comprehensive ingredient lists on vape packaging, making it difficult for users to make informed choices. He emphasized that even nicotine-free vapes contain harmful substances such as volatile organic compounds, metals, and cytotoxic flavoring chemicals. These substances can cause cancer, irritation, and immune system impairment.
Public Health Concerns and Recommendations
Richard Edwards, head of public health at Flinders University, echoed these concerns, stating that nothing inhaled into the lungs other than fresh air is likely to be completely safe. He warned that vapes containing nicotine are highly addictive and could be difficult to stop once started. However, he acknowledged that for individuals struggling to quit smoking, vaping under professional guidance might be a useful tool.
Experts agree that enforcement of vape laws is crucial. Professor Freeman, Dr. Larcombe, and Professor Edwards all emphasized the need to restrict the illicit vape market and encourage people to obtain vapes through legitimate channels. While Australia’s current laws are strong, they are not being fully enforced.
In response to these concerns, a spokesperson for the Department of Home Affairs stated that substantial efforts have been made to combat the illicit trade of vapes. This includes $345 million allocated to fight the illicit trade since January 2024, resulting in record-level seizures of illegal tobacco and vapes. An additional $100 million has been invested in programs to help people quit smoking and vaping.
A Call for Precautionary Measures
Dr. Stewart, the lead researcher, called for a more precautionary approach to public health. He argued that vapes are not yet proven to be an effective method for quitting smoking. Freddy Sitas, an epidemiologist at UNSW, added that many people who start vaping to quit smoking often end up using both vapes and cigarettes, creating a “dual use limbo.”
He warned that without proven strategies to prevent vaping, a high-risk population will continue to use both products. “It’s a bit like swallowing the spider to catch the fly,” he said.
