Peter "But isn't vaping safer than smoking?" ! Vaping is a safe alternative! What Research Shows: 49% INCREASED RISK of developing COPD if you vape. Vaping and COPD: Is it okay or can it cause more problems? Smoking cigarettes has long been proven to cause severe lung damage, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and lung cancer. Over time, cigarette smoke destroys lung tissue, fills airways with tar, COPD Myths Health BeatHealth Beat Vaping is not harmless. A new study from Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that e cigarettes significantly increase the risk of COPD and high blood pressure. Our own Dr. Todd Hoopman shares firsthand accounts