Smoking and vaping both linked to higher diabetes risk in major study

Smoking and vaping appear to increase the risk of developing diabetes, according to a new study by the University of Georgia (UGA).

The research, published in the journal AJPM Focus, shows that both traditional cigarette smokers and e-cigarette users have higher chances of being diagnosed with prediabetes and diabetes compared with non-smokers.

Hidden danger to metabolic health

In an era where e-cigarettes are marketed as a safer alternative, the study shows they may hide additional risks and contribute silently to long-term health problems such as prediabetes and diabetes, according to Shulakshan Neupane, lead author and doctoral student at UGA. He added that as e-cigarette use increases globally, it is critical to understand their overall health impact, which is not limited to the lungs but affects the entire body and metabolic function.

The concern intensifies as vaping becomes increasingly popular amongst young people, foreshadowing potential future public health consequences.

Short-term insulin resistance and weight gain

The researchers analysed data from more than 1.2 million people, using data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System study. They found vaping is linked to a 7% increase in prediabetes risk. E-cigarette use appears likely to cause short-term insulin resistance and weight gain, two key risk factors for prediabetes.

Millions at potential risk

Although 7% may seem small, it translates to around 7 million people internationally, given that over 100 million people vape, of whom at least 86 million are adults and 15 million are teenagers aged 13-15. With e-cigarette use trends rising sharply, experts estimate the public health picture may worsen.

Combination of vaping and smoking most dangerous

Traditional cigarette or cigar smoking was shown to increase prediabetes risk by 15%. However, the most concerning finding is that those who combine smoking and vaping show 28% higher risk, nearly double that of exclusive e-cigarette users.

Meanwhile, both smoking and vaping were linked to increased likelihood of formal diabetes diagnosis (7% and 9% respectively). Exclusive e-cigarette use increases prediabetes risk, whilst the combination of both burdens health even more, Neupane noted.

Additional risk factors

The study identified additional factors that strengthen the risk. Being overweight or obese and simultaneously a smoker significantly increases the likelihood of diabetes. The same applies to e-cigarette users with high Body Mass Index (BMI), who show worse outcomes than those with normal weight.

Economic level as barometer

People of lower economic status who smoke or vape show 12% increased risk for prediabetes and diabetes. Low incomes are often linked to higher stress and more frequent use of tobacco or alcohol as coping methods, Neupane explained.

Exercise as protective factor

There is however one factor that appears to moderate the risk: systematic exercise, which reduces prediabetes risk in smokers by 8%.

In summary, Neupane stressed that the new findings constitute an important message for strengthening public health policies aimed at reducing smoking and, by extension, diabetes risk.