Vaping has same effect on lung bacteria as smoking does, says study

Grim news for the vapers.

Vaping has the same effect on lung bacteria as smoking, a new study has shown. Research conducted by Queen's University Belfast showed that there is "little difference" between the negative effects cigarette smoke and vape vapour have on bacteria present in the lungs. Both vapes and cigarettes were found to lead to changes in the bacteria that can cause harm. These include conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, and emphysema. The Belfast Telegraph reports that although there has been a decline in the number of tobacco smokers over the years, there has been an increase in the number of people who vape. The study's lead author Dr Deirdre Gilpin said: "There is currently a knowledge gap about whether vaping is harmful or less harmful than smoking tobacco." "Bacteria have long been associated with the development of lung diseases, such as bronchitis and pneumonia, where smoking plays a role. "Our study is the first of its kind, and it aimed to compare the effect of cigarette smoke and e-cigarette vapour on key lung bacteria." Dr Gilpin added that the study suggested that there was "little difference" between the level of bacterial infection risk associated with cigarette smoke and vaping. There is no data available yet to show the long term effects of vaping on the lungs.