The European Society of Cardiology has warned that «nicotine» is toxic to the heart and blood vessels, regardless of how it is consumed, whether through e-cigarettes, «nicotine pouches», hookahs, or traditional cigarettes. This is based on a comprehensive analysis of specialized studies on the harms of nicotine products. According to a statement from the society, published in the «European Heart Journal»: «There is no product containing nicotine that is safe for the vasculature or the heart». Thomas Munzel from the University Medical Center of Mainz, one of the lead editors of the report, stated: «The narrative of safe nicotine must end». Munzel added: «We consistently observe in smoking, e-cigarettes, tobacco heating devices, and nicotine pouches an increase in blood pressure, vessel damage, and a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases». He explained that the results showed that nicotine itself—even without the toxic combustion products, tar, or free radicals found in cigarette smoke—causes harm to the heart and blood vessels. Experts also pointed out that the long-term effects of modern products are still unknown and require more research, especially since many people combine the use of cigarettes with other products, making it difficult to determine the individual impact of each product.
