September 15, 2025 | 10:06 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Vaping, which involves the use of electronic devices such as e-cigarettes, vape pens, or mods to inhale nicotine and flavor-infused mist, has become a popular alternative for those who want to avoid traditional cigarettes.
Although many people believe that vaping is safer than smoking, research shows that this activity can lead to various serious health problems that impact the body's organs. Citing information from the Cleveland Clinic and Canada.ca, here is an explanation of several types of diseases that can arise from vaping.
1. Lung Disorders
Vaping can cause inflammation and irritation in the respiratory tract, especially the lungs. The particles inhaled through vape aerosol can irritate lung tissue, leading to feelings of breathlessness, chronic cough, and a decrease in lung capacity.
One of the most dangerous conditions is popcorn lung, or bronchiolitis obliterans, caused by diacetyl, a chemical often used in vape flavors. This condition causes permanent damage to the small airways in the lungs and disrupts the lungs' ability to effectively filter the air.
2. EVALI (E-cigarette or Vaping Product Use Associated Lung Injury)
EVALI is a serious condition referring to lung injuries caused by the use of vaping products. EVALI can cause severe lung damage leading to symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
In more severe cases, this condition can lead to respiratory failure and even risk death. Health experts warn that although the incidence of EVALI is not very high, it is a major concern for long-term vape users.
3. Impact on Heart and Blood Vessels Health
Nicotine contained in vape fluid is not only risky for the lungs, but also has negative effects on the heart and blood vessels. Nicotine can cause an increase in blood pressure, narrow blood vessels, and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including stroke.
Furthermore, nicotine also affects brain development, especially in adolescents who are in the growth stage. Nicotine exposure at a young age can affect normal brain development, potentially leading to behavioral disorders and cognitive problems.
4. Increased Risk of Asthma and Other Respiratory Issues
Vaping can increase the likelihood of developing asthma, especially in individuals who already have a history of respiratory problems. Substances in vape aerosol can irritate the respiratory tract and worsen conditions for asthma sufferers, leading to increased symptoms such as shortness of breath and cough.
In addition, the risk of respiratory tract infections also increases due to damage to the lung's natural defense mechanisms.
5. Prolonged Nicotine Addiction
Nicotine, the main substance found in most vape fluids, is highly addictive and can cause significant physical dependence. Long-term vaping can lead to permanent changes in brain structure, making users feel the need to continue consuming nicotine, even though it can damage their health. Even vape fluids claimed to be nicotine-free often contain traces of nicotine that are enough to cause addiction.
6. Potential Cancer Risks
Although vaping does not produce smoke like cigarettes, the aerosol from vaping contains a number of harmful chemicals that can increase the risk of cancer. Some substances found in vape fluids, such as formaldehyde and acetaldehyde, have been proven to be carcinogens that can damage body cells and potentially trigger the development of cancer in the long term. Therefore, despite exposure to these substances being lower than smoking, there is still potential danger that cannot be ignored.
7. Chronic Lung Diseases
Prolonged vaping can cause chronic damage to the lungs, which can lead to decreased respiratory function. This damage can involve the thickening of airway walls and the formation of scar tissue, making the lungs less efficient at filtering the air. Over time, this can lead to chronic lung diseases affecting the user's quality of life.
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