Information on Smokeless Cigarettes
Electronic, or "smokeless," cigarettes, are marketed as an alternative to traditional tobacco-based cigarettes. An e-cigarette is essentially a nicotine-delivery device that, according to manufacturers, has none of the carcinogens found in traditional cigarette smoke.
Function
Electronic cigarettes work by atomizing a liquid base, similar to the way a fog machine works. The "smoke" is not smoke at all, but atomized water vapor. The atomizer is battery-powered. Unlike traditional cigarettes, combustion is not involved.
Types
Electronic cigarettes are partly designed to look like real smoking products with the most popular models being the pen and cigarette styles. The pen-style resembles a ballpoint pen and is available in an array of colors. The cigarette-shaped model resembles a traditional cigarette.
Features
The liquid base used in e-cigarettes can be purchased with varying levels of nicotine and in different flavors. The liquid is housed in the cigarette's mouthpiece (or cartridge). Other components include a heating element (or atomizer), a rechargeable battery, electronic circuits, and an LED light cover on some models.
Theories/Speculation
Electronic cigarettes' safety--and efficacy as smoking-cessation aids--is debatable. According to the FDA, a small sample test found toxic and carcinogenic substances in the liquid base, and the World Health Organization reported in 2008 no evidence for its usefulness in nicotine replacement therapy.
Potential
More research needs to be done to create a less harmful liquid base; e-cigarettes could then provide a healthier alternative to smokers and those seeking to quit.
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