Vaping can trigger changes in cells that lead to cancer: Study

Vaping can trigger changes in cells often seen in smokers which may lead to cancer.

The findings indicate e-cigarettes are ‘not as harmless as originally thought’, experts at University College London and the University of Innsbruck have claimed.

Their study adds to growing evidence that long-term use of the devices may cause significant damage.

Epithelial cells — which line organs and are often the site of new cancers — showed substantial gene-based changes in both smokers and vape users.

Study author Professor Martin Widschwendter said: “These devices might not be as harmless as originally thought.”

The warning comes as the Government today introduces a law that will ban the next generation from legally buying cigarettes and combat the scourge of childhood vaping by restricting flavours and packaging marketed at youngsters.

One in five children have used a vape, figures show.