The Brian Lehrer Show Smoking Kills. But Does Nicotine?
Aug 13, 2025
Nicholas Florko, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author on public health policy, dives into the complexities of nicotine's role in smoking and vaping. He explains that while tobacco smoke is harmful, nicotine alone may not be the villain. The conversation covers the rise of vaping products as alternatives and the lack of regulation in this booming market. Florko also addresses youth nicotine trends and the ongoing struggles with addiction, shedding light on the intricate relationship between nicotine use, regulation, and public health.
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Nicotine Isn’t The Deadly Ingredient
- Nicotine is the addictive chemical users seek, but it's not the primary cause of smoking's deadly harms.
- Tobacco smoke and combustion chemicals, not nicotine, drive cancer and many cardiovascular harms.
Safety Is Relative To Cigarettes
- FDA finds many cigarette alternatives carry lower health risks relative to cigarettes, not zero risk.
- The main remaining harm from nicotine products is addiction rather than classic smoking diseases.
Pick FDA-Authorized Products
- If you smoke and consider alternatives, choose FDA-authorized vape brands rather than unregulated disposables.
- Authorized products have undergone review and likely pose lower relative risks than illicit imports.