E-cigarettes have caused a huge debate after health officials have linked the products to deadly lung illnesses.
Over the years, the use of electronic cigarettes has been on a high, and it’s becoming a trend.
Having been used as an alternative to tobacco smoking by many people because it has been considered safer.
The use of e-cigarettes have caused a huge debate within the health sector after health officials have linked the products to deadly lung illnesses. Recent test tests show that there are signs of lung damage.
According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention in the USA (CDC), vaping has opened the eyes of professionals who have confirmed over 380 confirmed and probable cases of a mysterious respiratory condition.
E-cigarettes are battery-powered devices that come in many shapes and or forms , where an essence and or flavored liquid is added. The different types and models have either refillable compartments, while others have disposable pods.
Regardless of their shape and or design , the mechanics and the operation is similar if not the same, whereby heat generated by the current causes the hot element to heat the liquid producing vapor smoke.
The liquid that is filled usually contains nicotine, numerous flavorings, and or other chemicals which users inhale when they take a puff on the device.
ALERT : Besides nicotine, e-cigarettes may contain harmful and potentially harmful ingredients, including:
- ultrafine particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs.
- flavorants such as diacetyl, a chemical linked to serious lung disease.
- volatile organic compounds.
- heavy metals, such as nickel, tin, and lead.
It has been reported that here have been 13 known deaths confirmed by the CDC in the US linked to vaping.
At this point in time it is still not clear as to the full facts or if there is a direct cause or whether it is the actual liquid content that caused the deaths. It is still under investigation , however preliminary investigations indicated that THC (tetra hydrocannibol) was found to be present in the refill liquid.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the USA received over 35 reports of seizures which are thought to be linked to e-cigarette use.
According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of South Africa (HSFSA), they don’t know at this time the long-term effects of vaping.
The evidence is mounting in many quarters and different views on vaping are being discussed. Vaping has been banned in a few countries. However vaping is accepted, and even promoted as an effective and “safe enough” method to quit smoking, by other national health systems.
The reason for these divergent views is somewhat alarming. Although studies have not been able to run long enough to be conclusive , it is the alert to the world that long-term consequences may result in the cause of side effects and or death.
The current international medical point of view is caution, and understand the possible effects when vaping.
Author: Dr Bruce J Mac Murray (DBA)
Director Health.co.za
