A new study by the University of New South Wales has found that nicotine vapes and e-cigarettes may be linked to deadly cancers, including lung and oral cancer. The research, published in the journal Carcinogenesis, highlights growing concerns over the long-term health risks of vaping.

The global analysis suggests that while vaping has often been viewed mainly as a gateway to smoking, there is increasing evidence that e-cigarettes themselves may independently contribute to cancer risk. Lead researcher Bernard Stewart said findings from clinical monitoring, animal studies, and mechanistic data consistently point to a likely link between vaping and cancer.

However, researchers noted that the current assessment is qualitative, and the exact level of cancer risk cannot yet be quantified. Long-term studies will be needed to determine the full extent of the health impact.

Australia introduced strict regulations on vaping products in 2023, including a ban on disposable and non-therapeutic devices. Therapeutic vapes are only legally available through pharmacies to assist with smoking cessation, although concerns remain about their effectiveness.

Co-author Freddy Sitas said many users attempting to quit smoking through e-cigarettes end up using both products, increasing their health risks. He cited evidence showing that individuals who both vape and smoke may face a significantly higher risk of developing lung cancer.

The researchers warned against delaying action, noting that early warning signs about the dangers of smoking were ignored for decades. They stressed that stronger measures may be needed to address the potential long-term risks associated with e-cigarette use.