Smokers now view e-cigarettes as riskier after lung injury crisis
May 08, 2026 by news-medical.net
Smokers now view e-cigarettes as riskier after lung injury crisis
Public perceptions of e-cigarettes' risks have shifted due to factors like the EVALI scare. Although e-cigarettes were initially seen as less harmful than cigarettes, negative views have increased. A study analyzed data from a clinical trial of smokers using e-cigarettes, finding that perceptions of e-cigarette risk rose after EVALI. Even though e-cigarettes are generally considered less harmful, EVALI led to a temporary increase in perceived risk. The study suggests monitoring smokers' perceptions of e-cigarettes to guide future policies. Correcting misperceptions is vital to encourage smokers to transition to less harmful options. Recommendations include FDA-approved aids for smoking cessation over e-cigarettes.
