Electronic Cigarette Health Risks

Tobacco is consumed worldwide in many different forms like, cigarettes, chews, snuff and dips. The origin of crude cigarettes has been traced back to the ninth century Central America, where tobacco was used in the form of smoking tubes and reeds. Crude forms of cigarettes were used during the sixteenth and seventeenth century. Now, we have cigarettes in various flavors with different tobacco blends. However, cigarette smoking is linked to many different health problems.

For a very long time, people were not aware of the health risks associated with cigarettes as well as other tobacco products. Cigarette smoking became widespread during the twentieth century and it was during this period that physicians started thinking about the possible health risks of cigarette smoking. By mid-twentieth century, there was an increasing awareness about these health risks and printed health warnings started to appear on cigarette packs. Though, cigarettes are still being used widely, various products have been introduced as safe alternatives. One of these popular products is electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) or smokeless cigarette.

Health Risks of Electronic Cigarettes

E-cigarettes are said to provide a flavor and physical sensation, that is almost similar to real cigarettes. So, e-cigarettes are touted as a safe alternative to conventional ones, as there is no smoke and this eliminates most of the harmful chemicals too. There is no possibility of second-hand smoke too. It is also said that these cigarettes do not produce the lingering smoke smell and may also save your money. Even though, this product is claimed to be effective as a smoking cessation aid, it is not still approved as one.

FDA on E-Cigarettes

With states like New York planning to ban sale of e-cigarettes, speculations are rife about the possible electronic cigarette health risks. Though FDA has not conducted any full-fledged study about the safety of this product, samples collected by its officials, had some quality issues. In a limited study, the FDA officials collected around nineteen types of electronic cigarettes produced by two leading brands. While the nicotine levels in some cartridges were far higher than the standard limits, some other nicotine-free varieties contained this chemical in traces. Another shocking fact is that most of these smokeless cigarettes contained carcinogens called tobacco-specific nitrosamines. One of them contained Diethylene glycol, which is toxic to humans. Though the study was not an elaborate one, this evaluation raised various concerns about the health risks of e-cigarettes. While the manufacturers claim that the study is not conclusive, the FDA is still concerned over the possible electronic cigarette health risks and the widespread use of this device, by kids and teenagers. The organization is planning certain activities that will help them to address this issue. FDA has also taken steps towards bringing these products under its scanner.

Apart from the FDA, there are various other health care regulatory agencies that have raised concerns over the safety of electronic cigarettes. This includes World Health Organization (WHO), which has strongly mooted for some conclusive evidence (through detailed clinical studies) to prove the safety of this product. According to WHO officials, until this happens, electronic cigarettes cannot be considered as tool for nicotine replacement therapy. They also denied any approval or endorsement from their side, for these products. As per these officials, the main issue is lack of regulatory measures in this field and so, a proper system must be implemented for this purpose. Even issues like leaking cartridges, disposal of used cartridges and accessories must be addressed.

On the other hand, various other studies support the use of electronic cigarettes. They contend that e-cigarette health risks are really trivial for regular smokers, who use conventional cigarettes. Health risks associated with regular use of conventional cigarettes are far more grave as compared to that of e-cigarettes. For them, e-cigarettes can be a safer alternative, if used properly. According to 'Health Canada', e-cigarettes may cause nicotine poisoning. Long term inhalation of nicotine may constrict arteries, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood throughout the body. Nicotine overdose symptoms include high blood pressure and heart diseases. The person may also become prone to stroke, GERD and peptic ulcer disease.

Though, there is no conclusive study to prove electronic cigarette health risks, long-term inhalation of nicotine vapors may cause health issues. In short, it cannot be said that e-cigarettes are good for health or are safe to use. But, it can be a comparatively safer alternative for those people, who use conventional cigarettes on a regular basis. So, if you are a non-smoker, you don't need this product. For others, who find it difficult to get rid of cigarette smoking, electronic cigarettes can be an alternative. In that case, try to use it sparingly and avoid getting addicted to this product.