Current research is limited and inconclusive, but vaping can cause some health conditions.

Since vaping is relatively new, the research on it is just beginning. Many researchers are concerned we might find additional health risks as we learn more about vaping and its effects on the body.

Vaping’s possible link to cancer is still largely unknown, but one study found that certain cancers, including thyroid cancer, were more common in people who used vape products than in people who did not.

This isn’t enough evidence to say that vaping causes thyroid cancer, but it is an area researchers will likely be studying in years to come.

The association between all types of smoking and thyroid cancer is unclear. Although smoking is almost universally linked to heightened cancer risk, this doesn’t seem to be the case with thyroid cancer.

In fact, a 2022 study found that smoking was associated with a lower risk of thyroid cancer, but researchers are unsure why.

However, other research on vaping suggests the opposite. A preliminary study presented at the 39th Annual AAPI Convention & Science Assembly in 2021 found an association between vaping and thyroid cancer. Of participants with thyroid cancer, 10.6% vaped and 2.4% did not.

This research does not prove that vaping causes thyroid cancer. But it does suggest vaping might have unique risks. Researchers are still learning about vaping’s possible health effects.

Vaping is a new topic for researchers, so there’s no data on its long-term effects. There are questions we don’t have answers to yet. It can’t be said right now that vaping causes thyroid cancer. However, it does seem that vaping has some negative health effects.

Not much is known about the effects of vaping on the thyroid.

While vaping may be a safer alternative to smoking traditional cigarettes, this doesn’t make it healthy. Since the additional possible effects of vaping on your thyroid, and the rest of your body, are unknown, this risk is generally not considered worth this potential benefit.

No cancers have been 100% linked to vaping. However, some early research has found some cancers to be more common among people who use vape products than in people who do not. This doesn’t mean vaping caused those cancers, but it does mean vaping could be a risk factor.

Cancers found to have a higher rate in people who vape include:

Changing your relationship with vaping

Changing your relationship with vaping can be overwhelming, but you don’t need to do it alone. Many resources are available to help you quit and support you each step of the way. When you’re ready, take a look at:

  • Our quit smoking guide: This article has resources, information, and more to help you get started.
  • The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Hotline: If you’d like to talk with someone, find a local support group, or join a treatment program, SAMHSA can help. You can call their free helpline 24/7 to get connected to local resources. You can reach them at 800-622-HELP (4357) or use their online locator.
  • Smokefree.gov: Smokefree.gov has guides, tools, and resources ready to help you change your relationship with any type of cigarette or tobacco product. They offer general guidance and plans catered to specific populations, such as adults over age 60, teens, women, and veterans.
  • The National Texting Portal: You’ll have free 24/7 support in your pocket when you use The National Texting Portal from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and National Cancer Institute (NCI). Simply text QUITNOW to 333888 anytime for advice and support.
  • The quitSTART app: For more help on the go, you can try the quitSTART app. This free app can help you track your progress. It can keep you motivated with regular games and challenges. It’s available for both Apple and Android devices.
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There’s a lot we don’t know about the health effects of vaping. Although vaping products may be a safer alternative than traditional cigarettes, they can still be hazardous to your health.

Researchers are looking into the potential that vaping might be linked to increased risks of several serious health conditions, including thyroid cancer.

This link hasn’t been proven, and studies vary on the exact effect of vaping on thyroid health. As is true for many things related to vaping, more research is needed.