E-cigarette aerosols damage DNA and amplify toxins, study finds

Australian researchers have found that e-cigarette aerosols can damage cellular DNA and trigger processes linked to cancer development.

A review of studies published between 2017 and 2025 was presented in the journal Carcinogenesis.

Scientists note that exposure to vapor affects key carcinogenic mechanisms: genetic material damage, oxidative stress, and epigenetic changes that disrupt gene function.

Nicotine plays a significant role—it not only causes addiction but also amplifies the effects of other toxic compounds. Aerosols contain acrolein, acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, heavy metals (chromium, lead, nickel), as well as carcinogens such as benzopyrenes and nitrosamines.

The authors warn that the combined effects of these substances may increase the risk of lung, oral, and other cancers. However, long-term monitoring of users is needed to fully assess the lasting health consequences.