Long term effects of vapes
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The long-term effects of vaping can be quite serious and detrimental to health, as discussed by and other experts on the .
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Chemical Exposure: Vaping involves the inhalation of chemicals such as aldehydes, lead, cadmium, and propylene glycol, which pose significant health risks. These chemicals can cause damage to critical systems in the body, notably the cardiovascular and respiratory systems 1.
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Cardiovascular and Lung Health: Vaping adversely affects endothelial cells, which are critical for blood flow and nutrient delivery. This damage can lead to increased risks of heart attacks, strokes, and vascular diseases, comparable to those observed in smoking. Additionally, vaping is associated with lung damage and increased instances of pneumonia, asthma, and lung collapses among youth 1 2.
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Cognitive Decline: Despite short-term cognitive improvements, long-term vaping can impair brain function, leading to memory and cognitive deficits. This is partly due to the effect of nicotine on the brain's dopamine system, which can result in dependence and withdrawal symptoms that exacerbate cognitive problems over time 3 4.
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Risk of Addiction: Vaping, particularly among young people, can lead to a pattern of addiction due to rapid spikes in dopamine levels. This can cause a "progressive narrowing" of the things that bring pleasure, contributing to mental health issues like depression when usage ceases or reduces 5.
Overall, vaping exposes individuals to several health risks that are comparable in severity to traditional smoking, and widespread public health measures continue to address these concerns.
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