Vaping linked to respiratory issues, anxiety and smoking uptake in youth, review finds
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A review of 81 studies by the UK Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health found vaping is associated with respiratory problems, anxiety, depression and panic attacks in children and adolescents. The review also linked youth vaping to a higher likelihood of later smoking conventional cigarettes. The findings come as UK vape users outnumbered smokers for the first time last year.
Key Facts
- The review analysed 81 scientific studies on the health and behavioural effects of vaping in children and adolescents.
- Vaping was associated with respiratory problems such as cough and wheezing, as well as anxiety, depression and panic attacks.
- Researchers found links between e-cigarette use and sleep disturbances, eye diseases and oral health problems including inflammation, ulcers and dry mouth.
- Infants exposed to vaping during pregnancy showed more pronounced reflex abnormalities, lower motor maturity and slower weight gain.
- In the UK last year, the number of e-cigarette users exceeded the number of conventional smokers for the first time.
Health Effects in Youth
The review by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health examined 81 studies on vaping's impact on children and adolescents. E-cigarette use was linked to respiratory symptoms including cough and wheezing. The studies also associated vaping with anxiety, depression and panic attacks. Additional associations were found with sleep disturbances, eye diseases and oral health problems such as inflammation, ulcers and dry mouth.
Pregnancy and Infant Outcomes
Data on infants born to women who used e-cigarettes during pregnancy raised concern among the review authors. These infants showed more pronounced reflex abnormalities and lower motor maturity. Children exposed to vaping in utero also gained weight more slowly.
Gateway to Smoking
The review identified a link between youth e-cigarette use and later transition to conventional cigarette smoking. This association is particularly relevant as UK vape users outnumbered smokers for the first time last year. The UK National Health Service notes that vaping is less harmful than smoking, but experts warn it is not risk-free and long-term effects remain understudied.
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Vaping linked to respiratory issues, anxiety and smoking uptake in youth, review finds
