E-cigarettes, or devices that allow users to breathe in liquid containing nicotine, continue to rise in
popularity. Current and former smokers of tobacco often use e-cigarettes as an attempt to quit smoking
altogether. Flavors such as coffee, mint, and cherry may tempt younger people to try these products.
Along with nicotine, the liquid in e-cigarettes also contains other chemicals and flavorings. When the
e-cigarette is puffed, the atomizer heats up, turning the liquid in the tank or cartridge into a vapor (aerosol).
You then breathe in this vapor.
“Little research has been done on e-cigarettes. Experts don't know how much nicotine or other harmful
chemicals users are inhaling,” said pulmonologist, Albert Naveed, MD. “E-cigarettes do contain some level
of nicotine which is a very addictive substance and can harm parts of the brain that control mood and
learning, making it a serious concern for younger users.”
At high doses, nicotine can cause dizziness and vomiting, and nicotine poisoning
is possible. Users who refill their own cartridges are at a greater risk for unsafe
levels of the drug. Vaping is not a healthier alternative to smoking cigarettes
and the chemicals in vape juice are linked to cancer, asthma,
wheezing and shortness of breath.
What You Need to Know
2,051+
lung injury cases in the United States have been associated with vaping as of November 2019.
10 million
youth in the United States used, or were open
to using, e-cigarettes in 2018.
39 deaths
were associated with vaping as of November 2019.
Eighth graders
who vape are 10 times more likely to eventually smoke cigarettes than their non-vaping peers.
60%
of young people think e-cigarettes are mostly flavor; the truth is that more than 98% of products tested contain nicotine.