Oncologist explained the dangers of smoking vapes

The symptoms of EVALI — acute pneumonia — usually develop after three months of regular vaping, which is considered the minimum period for which the first pathological changes in the lungs may appear. However, the longer a person uses vapes, the higher the risk of severe consequences. Andrey Nefedov, an oncologist of the highest qualification category, thoracic surgeon, Candidate of Medical Sciences, told Izvestia on April 28.

"With prolonged experience of vaping, macrophages — cells that perform protective and cleansing functions, including in the respiratory tract — accumulate excessive amounts of toxins that they are unable to process. This leads to inflammation of the lung tissue and disruption of gas exchange in the alveoli. As a result, EVALI develops, which is manifested by shortness of breath, fever, chest pain, nausea, vomiting and severe fatigue," the expert explained.

According to him, if you start treatment on time and stop smoking vapes, you can relieve inflammation in the lungs and restore respiratory function. However, in severe cases, EVALI can lead to serious consequences, including chronic breathing problems or even death.

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"Contrary to a common stereotype, vapes and e—cigarettes are definitely not a safe alternative to regular cigarettes. These gadgets contain nicotine and toxic compounds such as vitamin E acetate, diacetyl, formaldehyde and acetaldehyde," Nefedov stressed.

The doctor drew attention to the fact that smoking patterns that combine the use of conventional and electronic cigarettes are often found. According to a study by scientists from Johns Hopkins University, this leads to an increased risk of hypertension, diabetes mellitus and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

"Up to a certain point, the pulmonary system can compensate for the damage done to it, but this ability is not unlimited. When symptoms of smoking-related respiratory diseases begin to appear, it often means that the damage has already become significant. For example, in COPD, the changes that occur are irreversible, and some types of pneumonia can leave scarring in the lung tissue, which reduces the ability of the lungs to provide oxygen to the body," said the thoracic surgeon.

Earlier, on March 28, Anastasia Fomicheva, a cardiologist at SM Clinic, said that smoking is considered one of the most dangerous habits for the heart. Once in the body, nicotine and other toxic compounds significantly increase the likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease.