What is Vaping?

Vaping is the inhalation of an aerosol produced by a vaping device. This aerosol is created by heating the liquid solution (commonly called e-liquid) contained in a vaping device, which usually has nicotine with or without flavourings. The substance you breathe in while vaping has been found to contain toxins and cancer-causing agents much like tobacco products. Vaping devices are commonly called e-cigarettes, mods, vapes, pens, e-hookahs, and sub-ohms.

Vaping technology evolves rapidly. While older devices included mods, pens, and sub-ohms, the modern market is dominated by high-puff, rechargeable disposable vapes that feature smart display screens and deliver tens of thousands of puffs per device. Additionally, youth are increasingly turning to non-combustible alternatives like oral nicotine pouches (commonly called "lip pillows" or "upper deckies"), which present intense addiction risks independent of traditional smoking. 

Health Canada Recommends the Following for Canadians Considering the Use of Vaping Products:

• Understand the Pulmonary Risks: Vaping is not safe. Current clinical data shows that e-cigarette aerosol causes acute airway inflammation, cellular DNA damage, and significantly increases the long-term risk of developing asthma, respiratory infections, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). 

• Protect Developing Brains: Nicotine is uniquely hazardous to adolescents and young adults. Exposure before age 25 permanently alters brain circuitry responsible for attention, learning, impulse control, and mood regulation, while strongly correlating with increased youth anxiety and depression.  

• Strict Prevention Groups: Individuals who do not currently smoke, pregnant individuals, and those who have successfully quit tobacco should entirely avoid vaping and oral nicotine products. 

If You Are Vaping:

• Monitor Your Lung Health: Be alert for persistent coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest pain, and ensure your healthcare provider knows exactly what devices you use. 

• Avoid "Dual Use": While some adults attempt to use vapes to quit smoking, vaping is not a Health Canada-approved cessation method. Data shows most adult users engage in "dual use" (vaping and smoking concurrently), which severely multiplies cardiovascular and respiratory harm. Talk to a medical professional about clinically proven, regulated cessation options.  

• Are you looking for quit support? Join our Saskatchewan Quits Facebook Support Group.