Understanding the impact of e cigarettes on health and society

Over the past decade, e cigarettes have transformed the landscape of nicotine consumption and public health discussions worldwide. The impact of e cigarettes extends far beyond their role as an alternative to traditional smoking; they touch on complex issues of addiction, societal norms, health outcomes, and regulatory responses.
From their inception, e cigarettes were often promoted as a safer smoking alternative, but this perception is under increasing scrutiny. Research exploring the health effects of e cigarettes reveals a nuanced picture, as these devices deliver nicotine without burning tobacco, which eliminates many carcinogens associated with smoking. However, studies indicate that vaping is not risk-free. E cigarette aerosols contain substances such as formaldehyde, acrolein, and volatile organic compounds, which may contribute to respiratory and cardiovascular conditions over time. For instance, some analyses suggest that exposure to certain chemicals in e cigarette vapor can irritate the lungs and may impact immune system function.
Nicotine addiction remains central to the broader impact of e cigarettes. While many users choose e cigarettes to quit smoking, young people are increasingly picking up vaping without a smoking history, raising concerns about a new generation addicted to nicotine. The 2023 Youth Tobacco Survey in the United States showed continued high rates of vaping among adolescents. The addictive nature of nicotine can affect brain development in teenagers and young adults, potentially leading to difficulties with attention, impulse control, and mood disorders.
Socially, the impact of e cigarettes is visible in the normalization of vaping culture. Devices ranging from discreet pod systems to flashy mods are widely marketed and available in convenience stores, often accompanied by sweet and fruity flavors that appeal particularly to younger audiences. This marketing strategy has spurred debate regarding the ethics of targeting youths and young adults with appealing branding and flavor profiles. Some studies have suggested that the flavors themselves may also encourage experimentation and sustained use, further increasing the risk of nicotine dependence.

• Potential reduction in tobacco-related harm for some users
• Continued nicotine addiction risks, especially for youth



• Insufficient data on long-term health outcomes
• Environmental concerns due to disposable devices and battery waste

Regulatory and societal challenges

Governments and regulators worldwide face the difficult task of balancing the potential harms and benefits associated with e cigarettes. Some regions, such as the European Union, have implemented strict regulations on advertising, sales to minors, and the concentration of nicotine in e liquids. In contrast, other areas have minimal oversight, leading to a proliferation of untested products that could pose health risks. The impact of e cigarettes on society is therefore closely tied to the regulatory framework surrounding them.
The conversation also extends to broader public health issues, including the burden on medical systems. Cases of EVALI (E-cigarette or Vaping Use-Associated Lung Injury) in 2019 highlighted the dangers of using bootleg or unregulated vaping products, bringing to light gaps in consumer safety. Such incidents force healthcare providers to allocate resources to the diagnosis and treatment of vaping-related conditions, placing stress on already stretched health services.
Another societal facet is the environmental impact of disposable e cigarettes, which contribute to electronic waste. Single-use pods and batteries can be difficult to recycle and may leach chemicals into landfills, raising environmental health concerns.

“The impact of e cigarettes on health and society is rapidly evolving, and ongoing research is essential to understand the full picture,” notes Dr. Kelly Moreno, a public health expert.

Future directions and research needs

Despite widespread adoption, there is a clear need for continued research into the impact of e cigarettes. Longitudinal studies are required to assess the chronic health effects of vaping and the efficacy of e cigarettes as smoking cessation tools. Policymakers must weigh the risks and benefits, considering both immediate public health outcomes and future implications.