Is Vaping Worse Than Smoking? Hartford HealthCare CT Many young people who vape did not smoke cigarettes before they started vaping. But young people who vape are more likely to start smoking cigarettes than those who never vape. For help We were shocked': Vaping considerably increases lung cancer risk among people who smoke Vaping isn't harmless. Early nicotine use can harm brain development, affect how nerve cells work, and increase the risk of addiction. Young people who vape are 4x more likely to start smoking Teens Who Vape Are More Likely to Start Smoking SPH E Cigarettes (Vapes) Smoking and Tobacco Use CDC