Vapes are often marketed as a ‘safer’ alternative to smoking at a time when millions in the UK still smoke cigarettes. However, a recent study has reminded smokers that vaping is not entirely risk-free.
The research, spearheaded by the University of Georgia in the US, analysed 1.2 million data points to gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between smoking, e-cigarette use, prediabetes and diabetes. Prediabetes is characterised by slightly elevated blood sugar levels, indicating an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
The study found that conventional cigarette and cigar smoking posed a higher risk for prediabetes, raising the threat by a concerning 15%. However, vaping was not far behind. The research disclosed that e-cigarette usage was linked with a 7% heightened risk, alongside short-term insulin resistance and weight gain in users.
Meanwhile, combining both smoking and vaping pushed that risk to 28%. Sulakshan Neupane, lead author of the study, explained last month: “In an era when e-cigarettes are marketed as a ‘safer’ alternative to smoking, this suggests they may carry a hidden peril and may be quietly contributing to long-term health problems like prediabetes and diabetes.
“As the use of e-cigarettes rises rapidly, it’s vital we understand their broader health impacts. This is not just about the lungs anymore but the entire body and metabolic health.”
Besides this, the study highlighted certain demographic characteristics that could heighten the risk of prediabetes and diabetes diagnoses. For instance, Hispanic, Black, and Asian people who smoked or vaped were found to be at a significantly higher risk than their white people.
Being overweight, having an elevated body mass index (BMI), or struggling with obesity was also associated with poorer outcomes compared to smokers of ‘normal weight’. However, further investigation is required to fully comprehend the underlying causes of these observations.
Neupane added: “These findings have important implications for public health efforts to curb smoking and improve diabetes outcomes.”
Warning signs of type 2 diabetes
The NHS outlines the primary symptoms of type 2 diabetes as:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Overtiredness
- More frequent urination
- Feeling constantly thirsty
However, other red flags can be:
- Reoccurring thrush
- Wounds taking a long time to heal
- Blurred vision
- Itching around the penis or vagina
Anyone worried about these symptoms should seek medical advice. Those interested in assessing their risk can also visit the Diabetes UK website, where a quick two-minute test is available.
Participants are advised to have a tape measure and scales ready before starting, as obesity and a waist circumference exceeding 35 to 40 inches are considered risk factors for the disease.
The evaluation is intended solely for people over the age of 18 and is not suitable for expectant mothers, as their results may be inaccurate. For more information, click on this link.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
