A recent study conducted by researchers at Georgia State University has shed light on a concerning trend among youth and young adults who use e-cigarettes. The study, published in the journal Scientific Reports, revealed that over 84% of e-cigarette users in these age groups have modified their devices, often in ways that could pose serious health risks.
Led by Lucy Popova, an associate professor in the School of Public Health, the research team surveyed nearly 2,000 e-cigarette users to gather data on the prevalence of vape modifications. The findings indicated that a significant portion of youth and young adults are making modifications to their e-cigarettes, such as adjusting voltage levels, adding substances to the liquid, or making their own flavorings.
Popova warned that these modifications can increase users’ exposure to harmful chemicals like heavy metals. In fact, unauthorized modifications, such as tinkering with batteries or using replacement parts that are not approved, can lead to overheating, fires, or explosions. A separate study identified thousands of e-cigarette-related injuries from 2015 to 2017 that required emergency medical attention.
E-cigarettes are already the most commonly used tobacco product among youth, and the number of adult vapers continues to rise. Alongside efforts to educate the public about the health risks of vaping, Popova emphasized the importance of raising awareness about the dangers of modifying e-cigarettes. This could include campaigns focused on product labeling, safe use instructions, and the potential hazards of DIY alterations.
The study’s results underscore the need for greater public education on the risks associated with e-cigarette modifications. Most users are unaware of the potential dangers posed by altering their devices, making it crucial to provide them with accurate information to make informed decisions about their vaping habits.
For more information on this study, you can refer to the publication in Scientific Reports by Lucy Popova et al. (DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-08722-8). The research was conducted by Georgia State University, a leading institution in public health research.
As always, it is essential to stay informed about the latest developments in health research and to approach vaping with caution. Awareness and education are key in promoting safer practices among e-cigarette users, particularly among youth and young adults.
Source:
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-highlights-potentially-dangerous-cigarette-modifications.html
