3 hours Ago
By Alberto De Los Rios The conversation around tobacco, particularly electronic cigarettes (also known as e-cigs or vapes), is evolving. One of the most common misconceptions is that vapes are less harmful or a better alternative to traditional cigarettes. However, vape products are neither harmless nor necessarily less harmful than cigarettes.
In fact, they can cause significant damage to your health — sometimes even more so than traditional tobacco products. The lack of regulation, illegal sales and increasing nicotine concentrations in vape products pose serious health risks for both new and existing users, particularly youth. At Boulder County Public Health’s Tobacco Education and Prevention Partnership (TEPP) , we aim to provide clear facts about commercial tobacco, dispel harmful myths perpetuated by the tobacco industry and equip people with the tools to make healthier choices.
A common assumption is that vapes are not harmful because they do not burn tobacco. But these devices expose users — and those around them — to hundreds of harmful and unregulated chemicals , including heavy metals, carcinogens, flavoring agents and particulate matter, all of which can lead to severe health consequences . Research continues to reveal long-term risks , creating a false sense of security that vaping is a “safer” alternative.
While some adult smokers have reported using vaping devices to quit cigarettes, these products are not proven tools for quitting and are not recommended for those trying to stop smoking. There are many evidence-based nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) and quitting methods available that are safer and more effective. Unlike vapes, which contain nicotine salts — a highly concentrated and addictive form of nicotine — NRTs deliver nicotine in a controlled manner .
Modern vapes contain alarmingly high levels of nicotine, with some disposable devices equating to one or even two packs of cigarettes. Since 2017, nicotine concentrations in vape products have skyrocketed , with some containing the equivalent of 80 cigarettes per vape. Vapes are not harmless alternatives to cigarettes.
They carry proven health risks, and their long-term impacts are still being studied. The combination of minimal regulation, illegal sales and dangerously high nicotine concentrations presents a serious threat to users, especially youth. For those looking to quit, there are verified, evidence-based resources available — none of which include vaping as a method to taper off.
Retailers play a critical role in addressing this issue by responsibly sourcing and selling vape products to prevent unregulated devices from flooding the market and to ensure those under 21 cannot purchase them. Unfortunately, illegal vape products are widespread , highlighting the urgent need for stronger FDA enforcement and better infrastructure to support local tobacco retailer licensing programs . Without proper funding and staffing, enforcement remains inconsistent, leaving communities vulnerable to the harms of unregulated sales.
Reducing the influence of the commercial tobacco industry in our communities requires a collective effort. Here are some steps you can take today: Contact your local representatives to advocate for stronger regulations on nicotine products such as pouches, hookahs and flavored vapes. • Educate yourself and others on the real impacts of vapes and tobacco.
• Connect people to resources like youth programs and quitting support . • Report illicit sales of nicotine products. • Encourage open, stigma-free conversations about tobacco and vape use, especially with youth.
Programs like TEPP, alongside community and health organizations, must continue to provide the latest research on vaping to empower individuals to make informed, health-conscious decisions. Together, we can reduce the influence of the tobacco industry and create healthier communities for everyone. Alberto De Los Rios is a Bilingual Community Health Specialist working for Boulder County Public Health’s Tobacco Education and Prevention Partnership (TEPP).
His work combines urban studies, sustainability, social and racial equity, health outcomes and community empowerment..
