Staff Writer
E-cigarettes
are gaining more attention due to their increasing popularity, whether they are
used recreationally or as a tool to quit smoking. Because they are new to the
market, there isn’t a lot of regulation or research on these devices yet.
E-cigs
use an atomizer to heat a liquid substance. The water vapor, which contains nicotine,
is then inhaled by the user. The liquids come in many flavors, many of which
might appeal mostly to younger crowds. Even though the industry claims not to advertise
to kids, flavors such as cookies and cream and strawberry seem to target the
taste buds of children specifically. While kids under 18 can’t legally purchase
the product, it would be easy for older friends to purchase the items for them.
With
such a new item, longitudinal research will not be available for a while.
Should teens be allowed to risk potential dangers by using a device whose
effects are not known yet? With no regulations in place yet, answers are
difficult to find and long-term effects are unknown.
Though
the machine lacks tobacco, it still contains carcinogens and chemicals that
could harm or stunt still-developing lungs. A 2009 FDA analysis of the
ingredients in e-cigarettes found that they contained carcinogenic and harmful
chemicals, including one found in antifreeze.
Many
people think this device, which some doctors consider a “gateway” to nicotine
addiction, is harmless and can even help smokers quit. In fact, a USA Today study cites that half of teens
say they would accept one if it was offered by a friend. Will e-cigarettes
become a useful tool for a smoker in his or her battle against nicotine
addiction since users can slowly lessen the amount of nicotine in the e-cigs, or
will this new item cause health issues for America’s youth? Ultimately, only
time will tell if e-cigarettes will help or hinder smokers and teens.
