WHAT ARE E-CIGARETTES?

Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are battery-powered devices that deliver nicotine, flavorings, and other ingredients to the user. Using e-cigarettes is sometimes called “vaping.” E-cigarettes do not create harmless “water vapor” – they create an aerosol that can contain harmful chemicals.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS FOR YOUTH?
• Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine, which is highly addictive. Nicotine exposure during adolescence can:

Harm brain development, which continues until about age 25.

Impact learning, memory, and attention.

Increase risk for future addiction to other drugs.

• Young people who use e-cigarettes may be more likely to go on to use regular cigarettes.

• Many e-cigarettes come in kid-friendly flavors – including mango, fruit, and crème – which make e-cigarettes more appealing to young people.

• E-cigarette aerosol is not harmless. It can contain harmful substances, including: » Nicotine » Cancer-causing chemicals » Volatile organic compounds » Ultrafine particles » Flavorings that have been linked to lung disease » Heavy metals such as nickel, tin, and lead

For more information click the CDC's website