THE perception that e-cigarettes are safe should be treated with caution, scientists have said as new research suggests vapour could harm lung cells.

A study, published in the journal Thorax, found vapour may cause inflammation and impair the activity of cells which remove potentially damaging dust particles, bacteria and allergens.

The researchers said some of the effects are similar to those seen in cigarette smokers and people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Professor David Thickett, lead author from the University of Birmingham, said: “They are safer [than cigarettes] in terms of cancer risk, but if you vape for 20 or 30 years and this can cause COPD, then that’s something we need to know about.

“I don’t believe e-cigarettes are more harmful.

“But we should have a cautious scepticism that they are as safe as we are being

led to believe.”

Many studies have focused on the chemical make-up of e-cigarette liquid before it is vaped, whereas this research mimicked vaping.

Professor John Britton, director of the UK Centre for Tobacco and Alcohol Studies at the University of Nottingham, said: “The harsh truth is that smoking kills, and smokers who switch completely to electronic cigarettes are likely to substantially reduce the likelihood of premature death and disability.”