Electronic Cigarettes Are Safer Than Traditional Cigarettes

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Abstract
An electronic cigarette (e-cig or e-cigarette), personal vaporizer (PV) or electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) is a battery-powered vaporizer that simulates the feeling of smoking. The user breathes in an aerosol, commonly referred to as vapor, rather than cigarette smoke. Limited evidence suggests e-cigarettes are safer than traditional cigarettes. People who do not already smoke can become addicted to them (Barrington-Trimis, Samet, McConnell, 2014). While Electronic Cigarettes do not contain as many chemicals as regular cigarettes and the nicotine is only a small amount compared to a pack, electronic cigarettes still prove to be dangerous just as regular cigarettes. Nicotine in any amount is an addictive substance, and is often seen as a gateway to harsher substances. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates nicotine patches and many other nicotine replacement therapy because they are drug delivery systems. Electronic cigarettes, which are, drug delivery systems, deliver a regulated drug, nicotine, however are not subject to FDA control. This makes access to nearly everyone, as easy as purchasing a pack of chewing gum.

Effects of Electronic Cigarettes on Public Health
Cigarette smoking has been steadily but slowly declining in the United States, as many different alternative tobacco and nicotine delivery products have been gaining popularity. This is partly because many alternative tobacco products which come in various sizes, flavors, and forms are marketed and often perceived as being relatively safe. However, alternative tobacco products, such as e-cigarettes, can cause serious potential health problems, including cancer, because of the chemicals and toxins they contain. Because electronic c...

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