Study Finds People Who Vape As Out Of Shape As Smokers

Non-vapers did far better than both vapers and cigarette smokers in a series of tests designed to measure their capacity for exercise, say scientists. CHIARA SUMMER VIA UNSPLASH

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Young people who vape perform as badly as smokers in exercise testing, according to a new study.

Non-vapers did far better than both vapers and cigarette smokers in a series of tests designed to measure their capacity for exercise, say scientists.

The findings add to growing evidence that long-term use of electronic cigarettes – known as vapes – is harmful, and challenges the idea that vaping is a healthier alternative to smoking.

Study leader Dr. Azmy Faisal said: “Previous research has shown that vaping is linked to lung inflammation and damage, and harmful changes to the blood vessels.

“Although some research suggests that vaping could be used to cut back or quit smoking, we don’t yet know what longer-term vaping use does to our bodies.”

The study involved 60 people in their 20s who all had normal lung function, according to spirometry testing.

Of the participants, 20 were non-smokers and non-vapers, 20 had been vaping for at least two years and 20 had been smoking for at least two years.

Each person took part in an incremental test on an exercise bike.

Dr. Faisal said the static bike is the “gold-standard” for testing physical ability and how well a person copes with exercise – looking at their heart, lungs, and muscles’ responses at harder and harder levels until they reach their maximum.

The participants also underwent blood tests and an ultrasound scan to analyze how well their arteries were functioning.