The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh is deeply concerned by the research reported in the Guardian (31 March 2026), in which the University of New South Wales cancer researchers found that vaping is likely to cause lung and oral cancer. In one of the most extensive research projects to date into the long-term effects of vaping, the research published that there are early signs in the body strongly linked to cancer risk, including DNA damage and inflammation. Responding to the research, Professor Grant McIntyre, the Dean of the Dental Faculty of the College said:
‘This research is incredibly alarming as for years vaping has been marketed as the healthier alternative to smoking, but now the research is showing that vaping can cause cancer in its own right.’
‘Additionally, I am deeply concerned with this research and the number of young people that are vaping, 7% of 11-17 year olds across the UK say that they currently vape, and 20% saying they have tried it. This prolonged exposure to these harmful substances from such a young age will lead to serious health problems down the road.’
‘It needs to be made clear that, although, vaping has been an effective measure used by people to stop smoking, it poses serious risks, similar to that of smoking.’