E-cigarettes, or electronic cigarettes, have been largely unregulated, and there have been many doctors and others questioning the safety of these products.
Electronic cigarettes typically use a rechargeable battery-operated heating element to vaporize the nicotine in a replaceable cartridge. Nicotine, the addictive element of tobacco, is usually dissolved in propylene glycol, a clear and colorless liquid that is commonly found in inhalers, cough medicines and other products. A laboratory analysis of e-cigarettes samples by FDA revealed that they contain carcinogens and toxic chemicals such as diethylene glycol, an ingredient used in antifreeze.
Dr. Helgerson. State Medical Officer, joins the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), American Lung Association, American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, and other public health organizations in voicing concerns about these new drug delivery devices. The FDA and other public health experts have issued warnings about their safety, which focus on several key issues.
According to the FDA, “e-Cigarettes may contain ingredients that are known to be toxic to humans, and may contain other ingredients that may not be safe. Additionally, these products may be attractive to young people and may lead kids to try other tobacco products, including conventional cigarettes, which are known to cause disease and lead to premature death.”
Because clinical studies about the safety and efficacy of these products have not been submitted to FDA, consumers currently have no way of knowing whether e-cigarettes are safe for their intended use, what types or concentrations of potentially harmful chemicals are found in these products, or how much nicotine they are inhaling when they use these products.
For more information call The Richland County Health Department at 406.433.2207
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