Facts and statistics

Harmful chemicals

Vapes might seem harmless, but they’re not. Some of the ingredients inside can turn toxic when they get too hot.
We don’t really know what breathing in all those flavours does long-term.
Not all vapes are made safely. Most legal ones follow the rules, but some illegal vapes don’t and can be dangerous. Some have been found to contain harmful chemicals like lead and nickel, which can affect how your brain and body grows.
Not sure what’s really in you vape? You’re not alone. A lot of young people don’t realise how much nicotine they’re taking in, or that some vapes might even contain illegal drugs like THC.
If you think you’ve vaped something risky or unexpected, don’t panic. CGL offers free, confidential, and judgement-free drug support for anyone who lives, works, or goes to school in Coventry or Warwickshire.

Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, and even occasional smoking increases your risk significantly.
A smoker who started young is even more likely than a smoker who started at an older age to become ill or die from it.
Vaping is also not risk-free, and is not recommended for non-smokers, especially young people under the age of 18 because their developing lungs and brains mean they are more sensitive to its effects. The short-term effects of vaping can include coughing headaches, dizziness, and sore throats.  The long-term side effects of vaping are currently unknown.