A new study conducted by the University of Georgia has found that people who use electronic cigarettes, traditional cigarettes, or both are more frequently diagnosed with prediabetes and diabetes compared to non-smokers. According to the data, the incidence of these conditions is significantly higher among smokers.

Hidden Risks of E-Cigarettes

The study’s lead author, Sulakshan Neupane, a graduate student at the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, notes that although e-cigarettes are often marketed as a safer alternative to traditional smoking, they may quietly contribute to the development of long-term health issues such as prediabetes and diabetes. As vaping becomes more popular, especially among young people, it is increasingly important to understand its impact not only on lung health but also on overall well-being and metabolism.

Rising Disease Rates Among Users

The research showed that as the number of e-cigarette users increases, so does the rate of diabetes among these groups. The risk of developing diabetes and prediabetes is especially high among Latino and African American individuals living in economically disadvantaged areas, as well as among people with existing health problems.

Dual Use Increases Risk

An analysis of more than 1.2 million responses from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey revealed a link between the use of e-cigarettes, traditional smoking, and diagnoses of prediabetes and diabetes. Vaping alone raises the risk of prediabetes by 7%. Researchers suggest that e-cigarettes may temporarily impair insulin function and contribute to weight gain—both factors associated with prediabetes. While 7% may seem minor, this translates to about 7,000 additional cases of prediabetes annually in the United States.

Smoking cigarettes or cigars increases the risk of prediabetes by 15%, and for people who both smoke and use e-cigarettes, the risk jumps to 28%. Dual users are also more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes itself, with the risk rising by 7–9%. Thus, using both types of products at the same time poses a combined health hazard.

The Impact of Weight, Income, and Demographics

The study also found that certain personal and demographic factors further increase the likelihood of developing prediabetes or diabetes. Smokers who are overweight or obese are particularly vulnerable, and e-cigarette users with a high body mass index fare worse than those with normal weight. Latino, African American, and Asian individuals who use tobacco products or e-cigarettes are more likely to be diagnosed with prediabetes and diabetes than white individuals. Another important factor is low income: people with the lowest income levels have a 12% higher risk of both conditions. As Neupane explained, stress and a tendency to smoke or drink alcohol to cope with it contribute to these increased risks.

Physical Activity as a Protective Factor

Regular physical activity offers some protection: exercise reduces the risk of prediabetes among smokers by 8%, which can partially offset the harmful effects. These findings are important for public health efforts aimed at reducing smoking and improving diabetes outcomes.