Is nicotine the cause of cancer?

Nicotine itself is not the direct cause of cancer. Andrew Huberman explains that while nicotine is a cognitive enhancer, it is the mode of consumption—such as smoking, vaping, dipping, and snuffing—that introduces carcinogens and causes cancer. The delivery methods contain harmful chemicals that disrupt cells and can lead to cancer 1 2.

For example, smoking and vaping introduce carcinogens that can cause significant lifelong health issues, including a dramatic reduction in lifespan for regular users 1 2. Additionally, the mutagenic chemicals from vaping are particularly harmful, as they can disrupt endocrine functions and genetic integrity 3.

Conclusively, while nicotine does not directly cause cancer, the methods of consuming nicotine bring the carcinogenic risks.