Assessing Lung Cancer Risk from Adolescent Vaping Using Historical Tobacco Trends

Abstract

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide, and it is closely linked to cigarette smoking. Research shows a 20-30 year delay between smoking onset and subsequent lung cancer development. This delay underscores the importance of investigation into the long-term effects of newer nicotine products, especially e-cigarettes (e-cigs), which have become popular among adolescents. E-cigarettes deliver vaporized nicotine along with harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, heavy metals, and flavoring agents that can damage the lungs. Despite being deceptively marketed as safer than cigarettes, these products can still harm youth because of their addictive potential and appealing flavors. Studies show that vaping is linked to early signs of lung inflammation, oxidative stress, and damage to the alveoli sacs in the lung. While the full health impact of e-cigs may not be clear for decades, historical patterns of smoking tobacco products suggest that we could see similar delayed increases in lung disease, including cancer. Predictive models that combine vaping rates, chemical exposure, and early lung damage could help estimate future risks. There is an urgent need for long-term studies and early public health action. Early education on the dangers of  e-cigs, stricter regulations, and monitoring teen vaping can help reduce future lung cancer and other respiratory diseases.