Vaping is not a safe alternative to smoking, health experts warn, as it carries risks similar to traditional cigarettes. Dauda, who reached out via SMS, sought advice on using electronic cigarettes to quit smoking. Medical professionals caution that vaping can lead to serious health complications, including mouth and lung cancer. Unlike conventional cigarettes, e-cigarettes heat a liquid containing nicotine, flavourings, and chemicals into an aerosol, which users inhale. While marketed as a safer option, evidence shows the practice exposes users to harmful substances. Public health authorities have raised concerns over aggressive marketing that targets smokers looking to quit. The Nigerian Tobacco Control Act does not fully regulate e-cigarettes, leaving room for widespread use without adequate oversight. Experts advise against switching from smoking to vaping without medical guidance.
Dauda's question reveals how widespread the belief is that vaping is harmless. The fact that it is promoted as a quitting aid despite carrying cancer risks shows how loosely e-cigarettes are regulated in Nigeria. Without clear laws on e-cigarette sales and advertising, Nigerians are left vulnerable to health claims that aren't backed by local oversight. This gap means many may trade one addiction for another, believing they are making a healthier choice.
