Vaping is a relatively recent phenomenon and, as with everything new that could potentially go into our bodies, some people are concerned that it’s not a particularly healthy practice. This extends to those that don’t vape themselves, but worry about second-hand vapour. With this in mind we’re taking a look at the facts to see whether passive vaping is something to be worried about, or not even a matter of concern.
WHAT GOES INTO AN E-CIGARETTE
To use a vape you must have e-liquid. This e-liquid produces vapour, rather than being a combustible system such as a cigarette, which then produces smoke. Typically, e-liquid consists of a base of either Propylene Glycol, Vegetable Glycerin, or a combination of the two.
This is then combined with natural or artificial flavours to create interesting flavours. To this some people then choose to e-liquids with added nicotine, but this is optional depending on what you want to use your e-cig for. The best thing to do is try a variety of combinations from a quality manufacturer, given the breadth of available choices, you are bound to find a flavour that suits you.
WHAT IS PASSIVE VAPING?
Passive vaping is the act of inhaling vapour from an e-cigarette that is being used by someone close in proximity to you. The worry about passive vaping comes from health warnings about the potential risks of inhaling second-hand smoke a few years ago, during which time the public were informed about the risks of smoking around other people and how this made them more likely to suffer from certain illnesses linked to the use of tobacco.
If you passively inhale vapour from someone who is using nicotine, you will inhale some nicotine too. However the amount of nicotine you inhale from some using a vape is only a fraction of the amount you would inhale if someone were to smoke close to you.
STUDIES AND PASSIVE VAPING
Though studies are still ongoing on this topic, those that have been done so far strongly indicate that passive vaping poses little danger, if any. In fact, what they have managed to show thus far is that passive vaping is a non-existent problem, with ‘no apparent risk to human health from e-cigarette emissions based on the compounds analysed.’
PASSIVE VAPING POLITENESS
That said, passive vaping is still not as healthy as inhaling clean air, even if it is much better for you than inhaling cigarette smoke, which has been linked to several illnesses over the years. If you’re an e-cigarette user, it’s up to you to understand that many people don’t like to be surrounded by passive vape.
Practice polite vaping and ask those around you whether it’s OK for you to vape in their vicinity. Refrain from vaping in areas where there are lots of people close together, and make sure you’re clear on the rules about the use of e-cigarettes in your local pubs, bars and restaurants.
Are you concerned about passive vaping? Let us know why in the comments.
