Alongside the 2023 data on adult vaping ASH is publishing a 'myth buster' [4] challenging common misrepresentations of the evidence on vaping. This has been developed with the country's leading experts on smoking and vaping and provides evidence that: Vaping is NOT more harmful than smoking.

In 2023 and leading into 2026, scientific consensus maintains that while vaping is "less harmful" than traditional combustible smoking, it is far from safe. Traditional cigarettes contain over 7,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic and carcinogenic. E-cigarettes generally contain fewer toxic chemicals, but they still expose users to nicotine, heavy metals (like nickel, tin, and lead), and volatile organic compounds. Research from 2023 highlighted that vaping can cause significant damage to the heart and lungs, potentially leading to chronic lung disease and asthma. Furthermore, the high nicotine concentration in many vapes makes them just as addictive as traditional cigarettes. Health organizations emphasize that "dual use"—using both products—is especially dangerous and offers no health benefits. While vaping is sometimes used as a cessation tool for adults, it remains a major health risk for non-smokers and youth due to its impact on brain development and long-term respiratory health.