Potential Link Between Smoking, Vaping, and Increased Diabetes Risk

Recent research from the University of Georgia indicates that both smoking traditional cigarettes and vaping with e-cigarettes may significantly elevate the risk of developing prediabetes and diabetes. The study analyzed data from over 1.2 million participants, revealing that individuals who use e-cigarettes are 7% more likely to develop prediabetes, while traditional smokers face a 15% increased risk. Those who indulge in both habits simultaneously face the highest risk, with a 28% greater chance of developing prediabetes. Furthermore, users of both products also show increased odds of being diagnosed with diabetes,
highlighting the compounded health dangers.

The research emphasizes that e-cigarettes, often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, may conceal hidden health risks, particularly affecting metabolic health and insulin resistance. The findings are especially concerning among vulnerable groups such as Hispanic, Black, and lower-income populations, who exhibit higher susceptibility.

Additional factors aggravating the risk include being overweight or obese, with heavier body mass index correlating with worse outcomes. Regular physical activity was found to reduce the risk of prediabetes by 8%, suggesting lifestyle modifications could mitigate some adverse effects.

These insights underscore the importance of public health initiatives aimed at reducing tobacco and e-cigarette use to curb the rising prevalence of diabetes and improve overall metabolic health.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-vaping-diabetes.html