There's no evidence e-cigarettes are as harmful as smoking

A recent article claimed there's no evidence that vaping is less harmful than smoking. Tobacco expert Linda Bauld argues otherwise

In his recent 'Comment is free' piece Nash Riggins claims that vaping is just as dangerous as smoking, and expresses robust support for NHS Boards in Scotland who intend to ban the use of electronic cigarettes when their grounds go tobacco free in April.

The reader might be left with impression that the use of nicotine is simply not compatible with public health aims, and that e-cigarettes should be subject to the same restrictions as tobacco products. However, to reach such a conclusion Riggins overlooks an extraordinary body of evidence pointing to the contrary. Disregarding this evidence could mean missing out on the potential of e-cigarettes to save lives. Let's look at his assertions.