Vape Scaremongering: The Science-to-Media Pipeline
March 10, 2025 by filtermag.org
Vape Scaremongering: The Science-to-Media Pipeline
Tobacco harm reduction experts responded to sensationalized news claiming vaping is as harmful as cigarettes, based on an incomplete study. The lead researcher from Manchester Metropolitan University equated vaping and smoking risks, sparking widespread media coverage. Critics found the study flawed, lacking transparency and proper comparisons. Established experts stressed the known benefits of vaping as a safer alternative to smoking. Concerns were raised about misinformation's impact on public perception and smoking cessation efforts. Unpublished studies becoming tabloid headlines were criticized as irresponsible journalism. The cycle of inaccurate reporting was highlighted as damaging to trust and credibility in the media.
