People who use e-cigarettes, traditional cigarettes, or both are at an increased risk of developing diabetes, according to new research from the University of Georgia. The study reveals that smokers are significantly more likely to be diagnosed with prediabetes and diabetes compared to nonsmokers.
“In an era when e-cigarettes are marketed as a ‘safer’ alternative to smoking, this suggests they may carry a hidden peril and may be quietly contributing to long-term health problems like prediabetes and diabetes,” stated Sulakshan Neupane, the lead author of the study and a doctoral student in the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. “As the use of e-cigarettes rises rapidly, it’s vital we understand their broader health impacts. This is not just about the lungs anymore but the entire body and metabolic health.”
Rising E-Cigarette Use and Its Implications
The use of electronic cigarettes, commonly known as vaping, is increasing, particularly among youth, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The findings of the new study suggest that rates of diabetes may continue to climb among this demographic.
Moreover, the study indicates that the risk of developing diabetes or prediabetes is even greater for Hispanic and Black populations in poor socioeconomic conditions, as well as those with underlying health conditions.
By the Numbers: Increased Risk Factors
Utilizing over 1.2 million data points from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey, researchers analyzed the use of e-cigarettes and traditional smoking, and how it correlated to both prediabetes and diabetes diagnoses.
Vaping was associated with a 7% increased risk of prediabetes. Smoking traditional cigarettes and cigars raised that risk to 15%, while using both increased the risk to 28%.
This seemingly small increase translates to an additional 7,000 cases of prediabetes each year in the U.S. based on current rates. Users of cigarettes and both cigarettes and e-cigarettes also had higher odds, 7% and 9% respectively, of being diagnosed with diabetes in general.
“E-cigarette use alone elevates the likelihood of prediabetes, with dual use conferring an additional risk. This study highlights potential compounding harm from using both product types,” Neupane emphasized.
Demographic Disparities and Health Outcomes
Researchers found that various characteristics could further elevate the risk of prediabetes and diabetes diagnoses. Being overweight or obese while smoking increased the chances of developing these conditions, as e-cigarette users with a higher body mass index experienced worse outcomes than normal-weight vapers.
Hispanic, Black, and Asian individuals who smoked or vaped were more likely to be diagnosed with prediabetes or diabetes than white people. Additionally, people in lower income categories faced a higher risk (12%) of both conditions.
“People who aren’t earning enough money experience mental stress and tend to smoke or use alcohol to reduce that stress, which leads to these increased risk factors,” Neupane explained.
Potential for Mitigation Through Lifestyle Changes
While the findings paint a concerning picture, there is a silver lining. Regular exercise was found to reduce the risk of prediabetes for smokers by 8%, offering a potential avenue for mitigation. “These findings have important implications for public health efforts to curb smoking and improve diabetes outcomes,” Neupane said.
This study was published in AJPM Focus, with co-authors including Agricultural and Applied Economics Professor Wojciech J. Florkowski and Chandra Dhakal, a Ph.D. graduate from UGA who now works for the CDC Foundation.
The research underscores the urgent need for comprehensive public health strategies that address both smoking cessation and diabetes prevention, particularly in vulnerable populations. As vaping continues to gain popularity, understanding its full impact on health remains a critical area of study.
