Research shows the fitness of young people who vape is ‘as bad as smokers of the same age’

A study found that young vapers performed worse during exercise than their peers who did not use e-cigarettes, and their performance was comparable to that of smokers of the same age.

The researchers say the findings add to the evidence that long-term use of vapes is harmful and challenge the assumption that vaping could be a healthier alternative to smoking.

The study, conducted by a team from Manchester Metropolitan University, involved 60 people in their 20s, all of whom had normal lung function.

One third were non-smokers and non-vapers, another third had been vaping for at least two years, and the final third had been smoking for two years or more.

Everyone took part in an incremental exercise test on a static bike. This is the gold standard for testing physical ability and how well someone copes with exercise, looking at the responses of the heart, lungs and muscles at increasing levels until they reach their maximum.

Two teens vaping. Young vapers perform worse in exercise than their peers who don’t use e-cigarettes and achieve performance comparable to smokers of the same age, according to a study (stock image)

The vapers’ peak power was similar to that of the smokers, which averaged 182 watts (stock image)

They also had blood tests and an ultrasound scan to analyse how well their arteries were functioning. Analysis showed that the group of young vapers had a lower ‘peak exercise capacity’ than the group who didn’t vape or smoke – producing 186 watts compared to 226 watts. This measure reflects the maximum amount of physical exertion a person can achieve.

The vapers’ peak power was comparable to that of the smokers, which averaged 182 watts.

During their maximum effort, vapers and smokers also used less oxygen on average compared to the non-smoking and non-vaping group, using 2.7 liters, 2.6 liters and 3 liters per minute respectively.

Blood tests and ultrasound scans showed that both vapers and smokers showed signs that their blood vessels were functioning less well than non-smokers and non-vapers.

The smokers and vapers were also more breathless, experienced intense leg fatigue and had higher levels of lactate in their blood – a sign of muscle fatigue – even before they reached their maximum level of exercise. Dr Azmy Faisal presented the findings at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) congress in Vienna. He said: ‘The smokers and vapers had measurably excessive breathing while using the exercise bikes. They found it harder to breathe, their muscles became more tired and they were generally less fit.

Blood tests and ultrasounds showed that both vapers and smokers showed signs that their blood vessels were not working as well as the non-smoking and non-vaping group (stock image)

“In this regard, our research has shown that vaping is no better than smoking.”

Dr Filippos Filippidis, from the ERS Committee on Tobacco Control and senior lecturer in public health at Imperial College London, said: ‘E-cigarettes are sold cheaply and in different flavours to appeal to young people.

‘That is why we see more and more young people starting to do it, without knowing the long-term consequences for their health.’

He added: ‘People who vape need to be aware that using these products can make them less fit and less able to take part in physical activity. Doctors and policymakers also need to be aware of the risks of vaping, and we must do everything we can to help children and young people avoid or quit vaping.’