Cigarette Alternatives: Are they Safe?

Abstract

In spite of limited data regarding the safety or effectiveness of electronic cigarette introduced into themarket as a healthier alternative to tobacco smoking, its popularity has increased enormously. E-cigarettes havepenetrated the market rapidly owing to the elaborate marketing network and attractive marketing strategies.Stated advantages include the claim that they help quit smoking and produce less exposure than conventionalsmoking. The list of disadvantages is even more elaborate. While the majority of the studies supporting healthclaims and efficacy for quitting smoking are not scientifically sound, they are also challenged by studies providingcontradictory results. Owing to the limited evidence on the potential advantages and disadvantages of e-cigarettes,the debate on their safety continues.