A new article reviews the potential hazards of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), including their components and byproducts, exposure concerns, disposal issues, and current regulatory status. E-cigarettes pose second- and third-hand exposure concerns. Contrary to what may be popular belief among college students, e-cigarettes emit hazardous chemicals (including glycerin, nicotine, diacetyl, and ultrafine particles), in addition to water vapor. In addition, components of e-cigarettes are considered to be hazardous and several instances of explosions or fires involving e-cigarettes have been reported. Occupational health and safety agencies recommend against permitting e-cigarette use in the workplace. Because of the known hazards and lack of thorough evaluation of these products, the authors caution against the recommendation of e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation device or safer alternative to traditional cigarettes.
Take away: Although more research on e-cigarettes is needed, they are known to emit harmful substances and pose disposal hazards. For these reasons, e-cigarettes should not be regarded as a smoking cessation tool or safer alternative to other forms of tobacco.