The use of e-cigarettes can cause numerous health risks because these devices contain nicotine, flavoring (diacetyl), ultrafine particles, heavy metals (nickel, tin and lead), and volatile organic compounds (benzene). Some of the harmful effects on health include the following:
- Increased possibility of addiction;
- Long-term harm to brain development and respiratory health;
- Future use of other tobacco products such as regular cigarettes, cigars, hookah and smokeless tobacco;
- Poisoning by swallowing, breathing or absorbing e-cigarette liquid through skin or eyes; and
- Serious injury from defective e-cigarette batteries causing fires and explosions
Teenagers are not aware that e-cigarettes are dangerous and unhealthy
Pennsylvania Secretary of Education Pedro Rivera noted that “teenagers think e-cigarettes are safe.” He is encouraging teens to educate themselves about the dangers of smoking nicotine.
“A variety of resources are available online and in schools to help students understand the impacts on their health and to assist parents with discussing this topic with their children,” said Rivera.
