Important not to become a dual user of cigarettes and vape

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SHAH ALAM - Heart-related health issues are increasing among smokers, even those who have switched from traditional cigarettes to vaping.

In the quest to quit smoking, many turned to vaping as a seemingly healthier alternative.

However, it was crucial to avoid becoming a dual user of both cigarettes and vapes.

Health expert Professor Datuk Dr Andrew Mohanraj said this was a dangerous combination that could exacerbate health risks rather than mitigate them, undermining efforts to achieve better well-being.

He said he has observed an increase in heart related health issues among his patients in his practice despite these patients switching to vape from cigarettes.

"This clearly demonstrates the dangers of vaping, contrary to popular perception that vaping is a safer alternative.

"Lifestyle factors like diet and exercise significantly affect young people's susceptibility to heart issues, worsened by vaping.

"Diets high in processed foods, sugars, trans fats and sodium can lead to obesity, hypertension and dyslipidemia, all increasing cardiovascular disease risk, compounded by vaping.

"However, antioxidants like vitamins C and E in a healthy diet can counter vaping's oxidative stress.

"Obesity from poor diet strains the heart and exacerbates conditions worsened by vaping," he added.

Andrew also emphasised that maintaining a healthy weight through a proper diet helps reduce risks.

He said regular physical activity could strengthen the heart, improve circulation and mitigate vaping's cardiovascular effects by enhancing heart health and reduce inflammation.

Stress management, he said was also crucial as stress could amplify vaping's cardiovascular risks.

"Combining vaping with a poor diet, lack of exercise, or heavy alcohol use significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

"This highlights the importance of avoiding vaping, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and moderating alcohol intake," he said.

Meanwhile, former deputy health minister Dr Lee Boon Chye stressed that it was crucial not to switch to cigarettes or become a dual user of cigarettes and vaping.

"Many vape users eventually start smoking, highlighting the importance of educating youth about this risk.

"Nicotine's addictive nature creates a new generation of addicts, some of whom may later transition to smoking cigarettes.

"Therefore, stopping vaping, if possible and avoiding dual use is essential to protect young people from nicotine addiction and smoking initiation," he added.