Vaping Is Not Safer Than Smoking — It Is Just Another Threat

There was a time when smoking was widely accepted — until the science caught up. Over time, people began to understand that smoking caused cancer, cardiovascular disease, lung damage, and many other serious conditions. Slowly but surely, society started to shift. Anti-smoking campaigns gained ground. Public spaces became smoke-free. Awareness grew.

But now, there is a new threat — and it is rising fast.

Vaping has taken over the younger generation. Colourful devices, sweet flavours, and clever marketing have convinced many that vaping is somehow safer than smoking. But nothing could be farther from the truth.

Vaping may look different. It may smell different. But it still delivers nicotine — often in higher doses than cigarettes — along with other chemicals that are inhaled deep into the lungs. The long-term effects are still being studied, but early signs are deeply concerning.

Doctors are already reporting cases of lung injury linked to vaping, especially in young people who never would have picked up a cigarette. Some are experiencing chronic coughing, shortness of breath, and signs of lung inflammation. And this is only the beginning.

What is most troubling is the perception. Many teenagers and young adults believe that vaping is harmless — just flavoured air. They believe they are avoiding the risks that came with smoking. But what they are actually doing is forming an addiction in a different package.

The tobacco industry has simply changed its product — not its purpose. Vaping is not a solution. It is a rebranding of the same old danger.

If you are a parent, a teacher, or someone who works with young people, speak up. Share the facts. Ask the hard questions. And if you are someone who vapes, take a moment to ask yourself — what exactly are you putting into your lungs, and why?

The sooner we stop pretending that vaping is safe, the sooner we can start protecting the next generation from another preventable harm.