Vaping linked to lung and oral cancers; illicit Chinese e‑cigarettes targeting youth

Researchers in Australia have concluded that nicotine‑based e‑cigarettes are likely to cause lung and oral cancers. The review, led by Prof. Brian Stewart of the University of New South Wales and involving several Australian institutions, found consistent evidence of carcinogenic substances, DNA damage, inflammation and oxidative stress in vaping aerosols, and linked animal studies to lung tumours. The authors say the evidence is strong enough to justify public‑health action, even as long‑term risk estimates remain uncertain.

In the United States, former ATF deputy director Edgar Domenech warned that illicit Chinese vape manufacturers are evading regulation by replacing nicotine with the unstudied synthetic analog 6‑methyl nicotine (6MN). These flavored disposable products are being sold to children, creating regulatory confusion and potential unknown health effects. Domenech highlighted the need for tighter oversight as the substances may be more addictive than nicotine and pose risks to youth.