Electronic cigarettes, or e-cigarettes, are devices that can be used to have the same feeling as tobacco smoking. Instead of releasing smoke, they release mist, which may have the looks and nicotine content of tobacco smoke. They are generally the size of a marker or pen and may resemble cigars, cigarettes, and pipes. The size is dependent on the battery container. Moreover, they may also be flavored. They are notable for having less health risks than tobacco smoking. This is because they do not use tobacco. Furthermore, they may have refillable or replaceable parts, or may be completely disposable. Lastly, since there is an absence of smoke and tobacco, some areas allow the use of them within their boundaries.
Electronic Cigarettes are a somewhat new invention, so there is not much information on the health risks of using one. The Food and Drug Administration has tested two vendors, which were NJoy and Smoking Everywhere. They found out that both brands have a tobacco-specific nitrosamines, which is a carcinogen, in some of their products. Also, the FDA reported that in some of the products that claim to be nicotine-free have traces of nicotine. Moreover, concerns were raised on inconsistent intake of nicotine. Finally, the FDA had a press release discouraging using the product. However, the American Association of Public Health Physicians support these cigarettes. According the AAPHP, people can reduce the risk of a tobacco related death by approximately 99.99 percent by switching to nicotine only products like the e-cigarette.