Information on Smokeless Cigarettes

Electronic, or "smokeless," cigarettes, are marketed as an alternative to traditional tobacco-based cigarettes. An e-cigarette is essentially a nicotine-delivery device that, according to manufacturers, has none of the carcinogens found in traditional cigarette smoke.

Function

• Electronic cigarettes work by atomizing a liquid base, similar to the way a fog machine works. The "smoke" is not smoke at all, but atomized water vapor. The atomizer is battery-powered. Unlike traditional cigarettes, combustion is not involved.

Types

• Electronic cigarettes are partly designed to look like real smoking products with the most popular models being the pen and cigarette styles. The pen-style resembles a ballpoint pen and is available in an array of colors. The cigarette-shaped model resembles a traditional cigarette.

Features

• The liquid base used in e-cigarettes can be purchased with varying levels of nicotine and in different flavors. The liquid is housed in the cigarette's mouthpiece (or cartridge). Other components include a heating element (or atomizer), a rechargeable battery, electronic circuits, and an LED light cover on some models.

Theories/Speculation

• Electronic cigarettes' safety--and efficacy as smoking-cessation aids--is debatable. According to the FDA, a small sample test found toxic and carcinogenic substances in the liquid base, and the World Health Organization reported in 2008 no evidence for its usefulness in nicotine replacement therapy.

Potential

• More research needs to be done to create a less harmful liquid base; e-cigarettes could then provide a healthier alternative to smokers and those seeking to quit.