Buyer Beware: E-Cigarettes

E-Cigarettes is a new product being found in stores all across this state and country that has gained popularity especially among people under 18. Perusing the store, the bright-colored packages are visible with a variety of sweet flavored vapors that brings many consumer over to look at this new product. E-Cigarettes are an electric cigarette that uses nicotine vapor liquid instead of tobacco products. The News Journal featured the headline, E-Cigarettes Could Be Banned which talked about state legislation that aims to ban the purchase of e-cigarettes in Delaware. The Department of Health and Social Services and the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) reports that the percentage of U.S. middle and high school use of e-cigarettes doubled between 2011 and 2012 and there was a 4.7 increase in the state of Delaware. While there are those who do not think that e-cigarettes are necessarily dangerous, most people feel banning minors from using these products will reduce the risk of smoking in the long-term. Many research studies show the harmful risks that tobacco products and health benefits of quitting such as, reducing risk of heart and lung disease and cancer (National Cancer Institute). According to the Delaware Division of Public Health chief, Dr. Rattay, “smoking is the leading cause of death in Delaware” and preventing addiction to this harmful substance is foremost. Overall, there are limited studies looking at the long-term risks of e-cigarettes which contain harmful chemicals: diethylene glycol (a toxic ingredient found in antifreeze), toxins and carcinogens (cancer causing agents). On the national level, health agencies and organizations are pushing for the FDA & the Division of Alcohol & Tobacco Enforcement to test and regulate e-cigarettes. Overall, there is great concern therefore, the unknown risks from an addictive substance requires the Buyer to Beware. Do you think E-Cigarettes are Bad?

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