Many people see e-cigarettes as a healthier alternative to traditional cigarettes. But a new analysis shows that vaping can be dangerous for the heart, especially for ex-smokers.
December 16, 2025, 05:13December 16, 2025, 05:13
Lynn Zimmermann / t-online
For many users of traditional cigarettes, the e-cigarette is considered a less harmful form of tobacco consumption, which is why they switch to it. However, there has been increasing evidence for some time that e-cigarettes are no less harmful increase the risk of lung cancer.
By no means less harmful: e-cigarettes fare poorly in new studies. (symbol image)Image: DPA
It was previously unclear whether the risk of cardiovascular diseases also increased due to e-cigarettes. But now a current study from India shows that the consumption of e-cigarettes is associated with a significantly increased risk of heart attack and stroke. People who previously smoked traditional cigarettes are particularly at risk. The study was recently published in the journal “BMC Public Health”.
Risk of heart attack more than doubled
For the study, the researchers evaluated a total of twelve studies in which over 1.5 million people took part. They compared the risk of heart attacks and strokes between e-cigarette users and people who had never vaped. It was also recorded whether people had previously smoked regular cigarettes.
The results
- E-cigarette users had on average a 53 percent higher risk of a heart attack compared to people who did not use e-cigarettes. The finding was particularly alarming among former smokers who had since switched to e-cigarettes: In this group, the likelihood of a heart attack was reduced 2.5 times higher compared to ex-smokerswho have not switched to e-cigarettes. The scientists suspect that the risks from previous smoking exposure and current vaping could reinforce each other and are less attributable to e-cigarettes alone.
- The risk of strokes was 73 percent above that of the comparison group.
- People who have never smoked and only use e-cigarettes showed no significantly increased risk of heart attack or stroke. However, according to the authors, the data in this group was limited, so there is a need for further research.
How bad are regular cigarettes for the heart?
According to one Study from last month The risk of cardiovascular disease increases by 50 percent in people with low cigarette consumption (two to five cigarettes per day) compared to non-smokers. It is therefore roughly comparable to the average risk of e-cigarette users.
Why is vaping dangerous for the heart and brain?
The liquid that is heated and inhaled during vaping, the so-called liquid, often contains nicotine as well as a mixture of propylene glycol, glycerin and flavors. Heating can produce toxic byproducts such as aldehydes and other reactive compounds that damage blood vessels and promote inflammation. These processes are considered to be the main triggers for heart attacks and strokes.
In addition, disposable e-cigarettes, so-called vapes, in particular pose a risk from heavy metals. If heavy metals such as nickel or lead enter the body via vapor, they can cause damage to the heart, respiratory tract and nerve cells.
Nicotine itself is also harmful to the heart, regardless of whether it comes from tobacco cigarettes or e-cigarettes. Because it releases adrenaline and increases heart rate and blood pressure.
Sources used: