Smoking is not so easy to quit, but the advent of e-cigarettes has apparently helped many kick the butt. E-cigarette is said to give a smoker an experience similar to cigarettes but without the toxic chemicals.
Researchers, however, do not vouch for the safety of this new innovation as it has no FDA regulations.
We have very little information about the chemicals inhaled by e-cigarette users. However, this is becoming a new fad, especially among adolescents.
Also, there is no evidence that e-cigarettes help smokers quit this harmful habit. The lack of FDA regulations have resulted in the use of nearly 19 chemicals, some of which are carcinogens.
E-cigarettes are said to comprise of nicotine and a high concentration of propylene glycol. This chemical is not supposed to be inhaled. Propylene glycol is what provides the smoke, but lack of information about the effect of this chemical on lungs when inhaled in a high concentration is a major hindrance.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has identified propylene glycol as an inhalant risk.
The general opinion about e-cigarettes are that they are a safe alternative to cigarettes, but we really don't know.
We don't have answers to questions like who produces e-cigarettes, the chemicals used in them and if these devices are safe to use.
Recently, Chicago implemented a ban on e-cigarettes, which is believed to be a good start.
A frightening trend is the growing number of middle school and high school students who have tried e-cigarettes. Health risks apart, this device is considered as an inroad to nicotine addiction.
Experts have placed more faith in methods such as oral medication and nicotine replacement.
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