According to researchers from King's College London, using electronic cigarettes increases the success rate of attempts to quit smoking to 65%, compared to less than 59% for other smoking cessation methods.
The report states that "vaping only poses a small portion of the risks of smoking" and "significantly reduces the amount of harmful substances inhaled.
Researchers measured biological changes associated with cancer risk, respiratory and cardiovascular disease risk. However, they stated that more evidence is needed to prove the potential long-term effects of e-cigarette use.
This report could lead to electronic cigarettes being prescribed as a tool to quit smoking under the National Health Service. In October 2021, the country's drug regulatory agency updated its guidance to allow manufacturers of electronic cigarettes to apply for licenses for their nicotine-containing products as a medication to help people quit smoking.
Scientists reviewing the study stated that, given the short- and medium-term beneficial effects on health and the fact that it has become a popular alternative to traditional cigarettes, they are willing to endorse a prescription program for electronic cigarettes.
According to Leoni Brooks, a researcher at King's College London and one of the authors of the report, smokers who continue smoking every year can expect to lose approximately three months of their life expectancy. She expressed uncertainty about the need for various steps before attempting effective smoking cessation methods that have already been found.
Despite this, scientists state that electronic cigarettes are not without risk, especially for those who have never smoked before. Research has also found that people who use electronic cigarettes have a higher chance of being exposed to certain carcinogens compared to those who do not smoke or use electronic cigarettes. Among adults who have never smoked, only a very small percentage (0.6% to 0.7%) have started using electronic cigarettes.
According to Professor Lion Shahab from University College London, who co-leads a research team on tobacco and alcohol, the latest report suggests that "healthcare services and policy makers should be reassured that encouraging smokers who are unable to quit to switch to these reduced-risk products will benefit public health.
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