Vaping’s Silent Epidemic: Reproductive Harm and Misleading Safety Claims

Abstract

Vaping, which has received considerable encouragement as a better choice than smoking, has gained popularity amongst the younger demographic as well as those individuals who wish to quit smoking. In this paper, we reviewed the literature available on the composition of e-liquids which revealed propylene glycol, glycerin, nicotine, formaldehyde, cadmium, volatile organic compounds, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and a number of other hazardous substances as the primary components. These substances, when inhaled through vaping have proven to negatively impact the reproductive systems of both men and women. While vaping lowers sperm quality and may affect erectile function in men, it has shown to disturb ovarian function, hormone balance, and fertility in women. It has even more disastrous effects on pregnant individuals causing complications like placental malfunction, premature births, and problems with fetal growth. Furthermore, adolescents who metabolize nicotine more rapidly than adults are more susceptible to addiction and may, in the near future, experience disastrous long-term effects. This study solicits the need for more research to eliminate misunderstandings about vaping's safety and emphasizes the need for increased awareness of its detrimental impacts, particularly in relation to reproductive health.