Warning: Vaping increases risk of heart attacks

Vaping is gaining popularity all over the world. 

Images of especially young people vaping at parties and during their social gatherings can be found all over social media. 

The University of Cape Town describes vaping as the inhaling of a vapour created by an electronic cigarette. The report by UCT states that "E-cigarettes, or vape pens, heat a liquid until it becomes a vapour" and the liquid can contain "nicotine, marijuana distillate or oil". 

Vaping can damage one's health. 

A preliminary report by the UCT showed that more than 25% of matric pupils are vaping!

Another new study published by the American College of Cardiology tracked 175,667 participants and found that vaping increases the risk of a heart attack. 

The study tracked the participants for over 45 months using health records from the National Institutes of Health. It found that those who vaped had a 19% higher chance of developing heart failure. 

According to the study, there was no other evidence to suggest other factors, including age, sex or whether they smoked cigarettes, states Forbes. 

READ: SA Medical Association warns against hubbly bubbly, vaping

Some people choose vaping as an alternative to smoking, however, research has shown that vaping is not a good aid to help quit smoking. 

Vapour Products Association of South Africa (VPASA) chief executive Asanda Gcoyi told UCT: “Some of the signs that a child may be vaping include an unfamiliar scent in the house, their bedroom or on the child. These scents can range from chocolate to a fruity scent. Also look out for an increased thirst due to a dry mouth, or equipment that may look like USB drives, cables or cartridges in the house or in their pockets." 

READ: WHO sounds the alarm on 'harmful' e-cigarettes

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Disclaimer: Health-related information provided in this article is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems. It is always advisable to consult with your doctor on any health-related issues.