Since electronic cigarettes have hit the market in 2003 they have been considered a safe haven for those who smoke traditional tobacco cigarettes to run to if they want to quit smoking or find a healthier way to enjoy cigarettes. The voices of the companies that manufacture electronic cigarettes have been heard throughout the world and they state that electronic cigarettes are harmless and cost efficient. Many “users” so the companies claim, have announced that it has helped them quit smoking all together and that they have had no issues.
Electronic Cigarettes: Health Risks
Electronic cigarettes were introduced to the world in 2005-2006 by Hon Lik, a pharmacist in China. It wasn’t until 2007 that it was internationally patented in the world market. Now electronic cigarettes are known world wide, from the far west to the far eastern hemispheres of the globe. Millions in Europe, The United States, Asia and various other parts of the world are enjoying these wonderful cigarettes, believed to be safer to one’s health than tobacco cigarettes.
Now, to understand how an E-Cigarette is different than a traditional tobacco cigarette, we need a summarized break down of components. An electric cigarette has a cartridge, which is the butt of the cigarette. The cartridge contains an atomizer that heats a liquid solution that contains nicotine and flavoring and then creates a vapor that is the “smoke”. In the battery portion which is recognized as the white portion of a traditional cigarette that contains the tobacco is a battery which powers the atomizer, a charger port for it to be charged and an LED light to simulate a burning cigarette. You can choose the flavors and nicotine levels that are included inside of the liquid solution.
The make of an electronic cigarette is way different than that of a traditional cigarette, thanks to technology. They sound pretty safe, but are they? There is no documented evidence of them being harmful. One can not really say yes it is safe or no it isn’t because it has never gone through extensive clinical trials. But there are many here-say inputs about electronic cigarettes. Such as the FDA’s statements on electronic cigarettes.
Some have said that the electronic cigarette does not produce the tar which is harmful to the lungs and other parts of the body. Tar turns your finger nails, toenails and teeth yellow. Well, since an electronic cigarette does not produce tar, you can count that out. The hazardous chemicals in regular tobacco cigarettes are not found in electronic cigarettes. But recently the FDA tested 19 different varieties of electronic cigarettes and found ingredients that are used in anti-freeze and other cancerous chemicals, MSN has a story on it in the previous link. So the once thought to be replacement of traditional cigarettes is as harmful, if not more harmful than a regular cigarette containing tobacco. The thing about electronic cigarettes is that it doesn’t produce second-hand smoke, but after reviewing stories such as what was mentioned above, the vapor could even be harmful to others if inhaled. It does not produce harm to one’s physical appearance but the affect is the same or worse to the organs in your body. So the once believed to be cancer-free smokes are still cancerous.
Before purchasing any tobacco related products or electronic cigarette products make sure to research the chemicals that are involved in them. Research companies to make sure the products are quality and are right for you. Remember to not smoke in front of others either, take caution in other peoples health that are around you. Consult with your doctor before using any products of these kinds.
