As a hypnotherapist specialising in smoking and vaping habits, I regularly encounter people who believe vaping is a "safe" alternative to smoking. I read recently that there was an established link between nicotine and cancer,  so I decided it was time for a deep dive. What I turned up revealed concerning links between vaping, nicotine, and cancer risk, even though the marketing suggests otherwise. Here's what the latest research tells us, and it is rather alarming.

The Nicotine-Cancer Connection

Direct Carcinogenic Effects

Contrary to popular belief, nicotine itself may play a role in cancer development. Research has shown that nicotine can affect several critical steps in cancer formation and progression. Studies indicate that nicotine promotes tumorigenesis by influencing cell proliferation, angiogenesis (blood vessel formation that feeds tumors), and apoptotic pathways (programmed cell death).

In laboratory studies, nicotine has been found to speed up cell growth in small doses, potentially creating conditions that favor tumor development. This challenges the long-held assumption that nicotine is merely an addictive substance without direct carcinogenic properties.

Cellular Damage and Oxidative Stress

Recent systematic reviews have found substantial evidence linking e-cigarette exposure to oxidative stress and cellular damage. This cellular-level harm creates an environment where cancer can more easily develop and spread. The body's natural defense mechanisms against cancer become compromised when cells are under constant oxidative stress.

Cancer Recurrence and Treatment Resistance

Perhaps most concerning for cancer survivors, research suggests that nicotine may cause cancer aggravation and increase the likelihood of disease recurrence. Studies have also shown that nicotine can create resistance to chemotherapeutic agents, potentially making cancer treatment less effective. 

I remember my own brother vaping whilst undergoing chemotherapy, not knowing how he was possibly derailing his own recovery. Unfortunately he didn't survive.

The Habit Reinforcement Cycle

One of the most challenging aspects of vaping is how it reinforces the same habits as smoking. Many clients come to me hoping to break their smoking habit after switching to vaping, only to find themselves maintaining the same behavioural patterns and nicotine dependence as before. This habit continuation means ongoing exposure to cancer-promoting substances.

The high nicotine concentrations in many vaping products could actually strengthen these ingrained patterns. Some vaping products contain nicotine levels equivalent to multiple cigarettes, which can make the habit more deeply entrenched and challenging to change.

The Time to Act is Now

While the full extent of vaping's cancer risks may not be known for decades, the emerging evidence is clear: vaping is not the safe alternative it's marketed to be. The potential for cancer development, the presence of known carcinogens, and the maintenance of a nicotine habit all point to significant health risks.

For those currently vaping or considering it as a way to change their smoking habit, I strongly encourage exploring proven methods that don't involve continued nicotine exposure. The goal should be complete freedom from nicotine, not just a different way of consuming it.