Electronic Cigarette Facts

Electronic cigarettes have not been approved by the World Health Organization.

Electronic cigarettes are small, battery-powered gadgets that resemble tobacco cigarettes. They deliver nicotine to the user when he inhales the smoke-like vapor created from liquid nicotine.

Availability

Electronic cigarettes are widely available in many countries and from central locations such as shopping malls. They are also available in a variety of flavors.

Insufficient Testing

Electronic cigarette companies often market their products as a safe alternative to cigarettes or a safe way to help people stop smoking. However, influential organizations such as the World Health Organization, the U.S. Federal Drug Administration and the Mayo Clinic contend that electronic cigarettes have not yet been properly tested; therefore, their safety cannot be guaranteed.

Not a Safe Cigarette Alternative

A limited test carried out by the FDA found carcinogens and toxic chemicals in two popular brands of electronic cigarettes.

References

• World Health Organization: Marketers of electronic cigarettes should halt unproved therapy claims
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Electronic Cigarettes
• Mayo Clinic: Electronic cigarettes --- A safe way to light up?