Fitness of youngsters who vape ‘just as bad as smokers of same age’, study finds

Young vapers perform worse in exercises than their peers who do not use e-cigarettes and record performances similar to smokers the same age, according to a study.

Researchers said the findings add to evidence that the long-term use of vapes is harmful – and challenge the belief that vaping could be a healthier alternative to smoking.

The study, carried out by a team from Manchester Metropolitan University, included 60 people in their 20s who all had normal lung function.

A 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.

Each person took part in an incremental exercise test on a static bike.

This is the gold-standard for testing physical ability and how well a person copes with exercise, looking at their heart, lungs, and muscles’ responses at increasing levels until they reach their maximum.

They were also given blood tests and an ultrasound scan to analyse how well their arteries were functioning.

Analysis revealed the group of young vapers had lower ‘peak exercise capacity’ than the group who did not vape or smoke – producing 186 watts compared to 226 watts.

This measure reflects the maximum amount of physical exertion that a person can achieve.

The vapers’ peak capacity was similar to the smokers, which stood at 182 watts on average.

At peak exercise, vapers and smokers also consumed less oxygen on average compared to the group who did not smoke or vape, consuming 2.7 litres, 2.6 litres and 3 litres per minute respectively.

Blood tests and ultrasound scans revealed both vapers and smokers showed signs that their blood vessels were not working as well as the non-smoking and non-vaping group.

The smokers and the vapers were also more out of breath, experienced intense leg fatigue and had higher levels of lactate in their blood – a sign of muscle tiredness – 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 the vapers had measurably excess breathing while using the exercise bikes.

They found it harder to breathe, their muscles became more fatigued, and they were less fit overall.

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

Dr Filippos Filippidis, of the ERS tobacco control committee, and reader in public health at Imperial College London, said:

“Vapes are being sold cheaply and in a variety of flavours to appeal to young people.

“As a result, we’re seeing more and more young people take up the habit without knowing what the long-term consequences could be to their health.”

He added: “People who vape need to be aware that using these products could make them less fit and able to take part in exercise. Doctors and policymakers also need to know about the risks of vaping, and we should be doing all we can to support children and young people to avoid or quit vaping.”