Electronic Cigarettes: A Modern Trend

An electronic cigarette is a device that converts liquid into aerosol, producing fine particles that can be inhaled like traditional tobacco smoking. As people became more aware of the harms of smoking, efforts were made to find ways to quit or reduce smoking. The electronic cigarette emerged as one of these methods.

Components of Electronic Cigarettes

Electronic cigarettes consist of the following parts:

• Mouthpiece: A tube to assist in inhaling the aerosol.
• Tank: A container for the smoking liquid.
• Liquid solution: The substance intended for inhalation, placed in the tank.
• Battery: The power source.
• Heating coil: The component responsible for heating the liquid.
• Power button: Found on some electronic cigarette models.
• Light source: Located at the tip of some models to simulate combustion.

How Electronic Cigarettes Work?

The modern functioning of electronic cigarettes primarily depends on a device known as the”cartomizer”, which was developed in 2006. The cartomizer consists of an electronic coil wrapped around a silica wick inside a small tank filled with the liquid to be inhaled, such as nicotine or other flavored substances. The tank, connected to an external vent, has a flexible valve powered by a battery with a voltage of 3 to 6 volts. When activated during inhalation, the coil heats the liquid to a temperature of 200°C, turning it into vapor or aerosol, which can be inhaled into the lungs, simulating the act of smoking traditional tobacco cigarettes. Some models include a red light at the tip to mimic the appearance of burning tobacco.

What Substances Are Produced by Smoking an Electronic Cigarette?

The substances produced by smoking an electronic cigarette vary depending on the type of liquid used, the temperature of vaporization, and the materials used to manufacture the heating element. In addition to the smoking liquid and solvent, by-products such as tetraamines, aldehydes, various metals like cadmium and zinc, and over 80 different chemical compounds, some of which may be carcinogenic, are produced.

Why Do People Use Electronic Cigarettes?

The appeal of electronic cigarettes lies in several factors:

• They mimic the act of traditional smoking and can help reduce or quit smoking.
• Users can choose from a variety of flavors, making them more enjoyable.
• The perception is that they are less harmful than traditional cigarettes.
• They are seen as a modern alternative to smoking.
• They serve as a substitute for smoking in no-smoking areas.
• Belief in the safety of pregnant women.
• They are less costly.
• They leave less odor on clothing and breath compared to traditional smoking.
  

Side Effects of Electronic Cigarettes

• Throat and pharynx irritation.
• Nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
• Increased risk of heart disease.
• Birth defects in pregnant women.
• Potential use for inhaling harmful substances.
• Risk of addiction.
• Withdrawal symptoms upon cessation.
• Fire or overheating of the heating coil.

Health Issues Linked to Electronic Cigarettes

With the growing use of electronic cigarettes, several health concerns have emerged, including:

• Respiratory infections, particularly those linked to electronic cigarette use.
• Poisoning from the ingestion of electronic cigarette liquids, either by children or in cases of adult suicide attempts.
• Explosions or fires caused by electronic cigarettes lead to injuries such as facial or eye damage.

Are Electronic Cigarettes Safe?

Studies have shown that using electronic cigarettes is generally safer than smoking traditional cigarettes and less harmful to overall health. However, they are less effective in helping smokers quit compared to other methods like nicotine gum or patches. Furthermore, when used alongside traditional cigarettes, they do not significantly reduce the risk of mortality. Statistics indicate that the largest group of electronic cigarette users are young people and school students, accounting for 13% of users, while older adults make up 10%. Usage is increasing, and in 2016, regulations were introduced in the European Union to control their use and limit advertising.

It is important to correct misconceptions about electronic cigarettes and increase public awareness of their potential harm to reduce their usage for the benefit of all.