Can Vaping Cause Esophageal Cancer?

Since electronic cigarettes were introduced in the United States in the mid-2000s, vaping has become increasingly popular. Many people start vaping because they believe it’s a safer and healthier alternative to smoking cigarettes, although a considerable number of users have no history of tobacco use.

Because vaping involves a relatively new technology, scientists are still researching the possible effects. As of this time, there’s no conclusive evidence that vaping causes esophageal cancer, but certain studies suggest that vaping could potentially lead to the development of this malignancy. Specifically, although e-cigarettes contain little to no N-nitrosonornicotine (NNN)—a chemical present in cigarettes and other tobacco products that’s known to cause esophageal cancer—studies show that smoking e-cigarettes can cause significant amounts of NNN to form within the body. As such, while it initially appeared that vaping couldn’t cause esophageal cancer because e-cigarettes don’t contain NNN, it now seems that vaping could potentially lead to this malignancy since users’ bodies are forming the chemical anyways.

Other risks of vaping

Vaping may have other serious health consequences as well. For instance, studies suggest that using e-cigarettes could potentially lead to cardiovascular issues, chronic lung disease and asthma. Plus, because e-cigarettes contain high levels of nicotine, there’s also a chance that a user will become addicted.

Esophageal cancer treatment at Moffitt Cancer Center

Moffitt Cancer Center is pleased to offer skilled and compassionate treatment for esophageal cancer. If you’re concerned about the possibility of having this type of malignancy, we encourage you to reach out to us by calling 1-888-663-3488 or completing a new patient registration form online.