Vaping and Smoking Linked to Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Attack Risk

New research confirms that both vaping and traditional smoking significantly increase the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular events like heart attack. A recent study examining data from over 6,200 individuals found that those who smoked or vaped had a substantially higher prevalence of elevated blood pressure and hypertension compared to non-users.

Study Details and Findings

Researchers from the University of Exeter analyzed data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2021 and 2023, focusing on 6,262 participants aged 12 years and older [1]. The study categorized participants as either smokers/vapers (n=1,190) or non-smokers/non-vapers (n=5,072).

Key findings include:

• Smokers/vapers had a 54.4% prevalence of elevated blood pressure (≥120/70 mmHg) compared to 39.2% in non-smokers/non-vapers.
• Hypertension (≥140/90 mmHg) was present in 15.4% of smokers/vapers versus 11.8% of non-smokers/non-vapers.
• Smoking/vaping was associated with a 34% increased odds of elevated blood pressure (adjusted odds ratio: 1.34, 95% CI: 1.12-1.60, P = 0.001).
• The odds of hypertension were 46% higher among smokers/vapers (adjusted odds ratio: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.06-1.99, P < 0.001).
• Smoking/vaping was linked to a 1.05 mmHg higher diastolic blood pressure (P < 0.001), but no significant impact on systolic blood pressure.

Electronic Cigarettes and Blood Pressure

While the risks associated with traditional cigarettes are well-established, the impact of electronic cigarettes is still being investigated. The study found a 15% increase in the risk of high blood pressure among those who used only electronic cigarettes, and a 5% higher probability of being diagnosed with hypertension, although researchers noted this result wasn’t statistically definitive due to sample size [1].

Recent reports also highlight the potential dangers of vaping, linking it to dangerously high blood pressure and an increased risk of heart attack [2].

How Smoking and Vaping Impact the Heart

Clinical epidemiologist Andrew Agbaje, a co-author of the study, suggests that the increase in blood pressure associated with smoking and vaping may reduce the heart’s resting time, potentially leading to arrhythmia, heart failure, and heart attack [1]. The study also observed that individuals who smoke or vape tend to have higher cholesterol levels and body fat rates.

research indicates that many individuals do not quit traditional cigarettes when they start using electronic cigarettes, potentially doubling their nicotine intake [1].

Key Takeaways

• Both smoking and vaping are associated with significantly higher blood pressure and an increased risk of hypertension.
• The risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke, is elevated in individuals who smoke or vape.
• Electronic cigarettes may also contribute to increased blood pressure, although more research is needed.
• Higher cholesterol levels and body fat rates are commonly observed in smokers and vapers.

As of March 6, 2026, the evidence strongly suggests that avoiding both smoking and vaping is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health. [4]