Major Scientific Review Links Vaping to Oral and Lung Cancers
A comprehensive scientific review conducted by Bernard Stewart and colleagues has concluded that vaping is likely to cause oral and lung cancers. The research, published on Tuesday 31 March 2026, represents a significant shift in understanding the health risks associated with electronic cigarettes.
Key Characteristics of Carcinogens Identified
The review focused on bodily effects linked to cancer, as long-term studies directly proving cancer causation by vaping are not yet available. Researchers found that vape aerosols contain numerous chemicals, including nicotine byproducts and vaporised metals, which exhibit almost all ten "key characteristics of carcinogens" identified by the World Health Organisation.
Evidence of Cancer Risk
The evidence presented in the review includes:
- Absorption of cancer-linked chemicals by regular vapers
- DNA mutations detected in mouth and lung tissues of vapers
- Significant changes to cancer biomarkers in individuals who vape
This represents the strongest evidence to date connecting vaping to cancer development, despite the absence of decades-long epidemiological studies.
Shifting Scientific Consensus
The scientific consensus has evolved dramatically in recent years. While earlier research indicated a lack of sufficient evidence regarding vaping's cancer risks, by 2024-2025, significant concern had emerged among researchers about vaping's carcinogenic potential. This latest review consolidates that growing concern into concrete findings.
The research team emphasized that while vaping may present fewer risks than traditional tobacco smoking for some users, the evidence now clearly indicates it is not risk-free and carries significant cancer concerns that must be addressed through public health policy and consumer education.
